FEBRUARY 2015
TH E
BEACON U n i t a r i a n o f
C h u r c h L i n c o l n
Sunday Services
Our Whole Lives
Auction Kick-Off
Green Corner
Including “Something Worth Dying For” Feb 22
Two sessions offered for K/1 and 4/5 grade levels.
Don’t miss this church fun-draiser and treat table
Learn about UU divestment
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2015 Winter Lecture Series National Borders and Refugees: Social and Political Consequences The 2015 Winter Lecture Series will The WLS is a service to the community which the consist of six lectures presented on six successive Sundays from 2/8/15 Unitarian Church has hosted for over ten years. to 3/15/15. All activities will be at the newly renovated Unitarian Shavers of UNL’s Law School will discuss United Church. Each Sunday session will begin at 7:00 States government policies toward refugees and PM and end at 9:00 PM, with the 1-hour lecture immigrants. followed by a brief refreshment period and then an audience-driven Q&A. The lectures are free and March 1: “Immigration from Central America and open to the public and parking is available. Mexico.” Professor Sergio Wals of UNL’s Political Science will lecture on immigration from Central February 8: “People on the Move: Cultures in America and Mexico. Flux: Migrants, Refugees and Movers.” Professor David Iaquinta of Wesleyan University, Sociology March 8: “Conflict and Refugees in Africa.” Department, will provide an overview of Professor Bob Hitchcock Department of nationalism, national identify, patterns of refugee Anthropology at the University of New Mexico, will flow and migration in history and currently. discuss conflict and refugees in Africa. March 15: “Lincoln: A Refugee Friendly City!” Marvin Almy, past Executive Director of the Human Services Federation and Refugee Coordinator for Lincoln Literacy, will describe refugees in Lincoln.
Thanks to the Nebraska Humanities Council and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment for their ongoing support. February 15: “The UN and Refugees: Political Solutions for Humanitarian Problems?” Professor David Forsythe of UNL Political Science will discuss the role of the UN agencies, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNWRA), incorporating information about refugees in middle east—Palestine, Syria, etc. February 22: “US Government Policies Toward Refugees and Immigrants.” Professor Anna
The lecture series is supported by a major grant from Humanities Nebraska and receives additional support from the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). For additional information, contact Dick Dienstbier rdien@neb.rr.com 402-489-7545, or Bob Stoddard bob.stoddard@windstream.net
6300 A St • Lincoln, NE 68510 • 402-483-2213 • unitarianlincoln.org
FEBRUARY 2015
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WO RS H IP
A Month of Sundays 10:00 AM at 6300 A Street Sunday, February 1 - “Wild Geese” Reflections on a poem by Mary Oliver. Worship Leaders: Members of Worship Associates Speakers: Members of Worship Associates Music: Barb Brant (Worship Associate)
Sunday, February 8 Worship Leader: Rev. Dr. Justin Osterman Music: TBA Share the Plate: WICS Home for Girls
Sunday, February 15 Worship Leader: Rev. Dr. Justin Osterman Music: Ryan Wells, piano
Sunday, February 22 “Something Worth Dying For” Fifty years ago this March, Unitarian minister James Reeb left his wife and four children in Boston to answer Martin Luther King, Jr’s call to stand on the side of equality in Selma, Alabama. That stand led to his murder and to an important place in American history. With stories and songs, we will take a closer look at this Unitarian and his ultimate sacrifice. Worship Leaders: Julie Enersen, Amy Miller Music: Unitarian Choir Participants: Jordan Blenner, Will Heafer, Declan Lanning, and More Share the Care: Denominational Affairs
WORSHIP ARTS NEWS All are invited to sing! The Unitarian Church Choir is open to all of our members and friends. If you like the challenge of reading music and would enjoy singing in the Sunday services, then simply come to our rehearsals in the church auditorium: Feb. 11 & 18 - 7:00 rehearsals Feb. 22 - 8:30 rehearsal, 10:00 service Mar. 18 & 25 - 7:00 rehearsals Mar. 29 - 8:30 rehearsal, 10:00 service Apr. 15 & 22 - 7:00 rehearsals Apr. 26 - 8:30 rehearsal, 10:00 service Willingness and enthusiasm are the two major requirements; don't rule yourself out because you're "not a very strong singer." We need all kinds of voices in our group and yours is most certainly welcome here.
Time to put Drama Camp on the calendar June 15-19 • 9:00 AM - 12 noon; June 21 10 AM service Ready to start planning your summer? Then put Drama Club on your calendar for June 15-19 from 9:00AM-Noon. All students in Kindergarten and beyond are invited to participate. They will work for five mornings and then present the service on Sunday, June 21 at 10:00AM. Grades K - 5 The younger students will participate in theatre games and will learn what is involved in creating a character and putting a play. There will be opportunities for both speaking and non-speaking parts as the kids lead the worship through readings and performance of a skit. There is a $10 charge for every K-5 student in order to cover the cost of costumes and supplies. Scholarships are available for those who need assistance. Grades 6 - 12 Our older students will have numerous responsibilities in the service including serving as worship leaders and providing the music on that Sunday. We hope your children have an interest in being part of this fun-filled annual experience. To see highlights from last year’s Drama Camp, please take a look at the video at http://unitarianlincoln.weebly.com/drama-club.html. To reserve a spot, simply send a note to Julie Enersen — worshiparts@unitarianlincoln.org — with names and grades of interested students.
6300 A St • Lincoln, NE 68510 • 402-483-2213 • unitarianlincoln.org
FEBRUARY 2015
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THE HEART OF THE MATTER I learned last night that the church’s Board of Trustees chose not to ask me to serve for a second year as your interim minister. I’m disappointed, but life is full of such disappointments. The question is always, “What can be learned from this experience?” On quick spiritual inspection, I see that my principle ailments are injured pride and a bruised ego. Christianity catalogues pride as one of the Seven Deadly Sins and Buddhism teaches that the ego must be extinguished to achieve enlightenment. God (or whatever you call the Universal Spiritual Instructor) has given me an excellent opportunity to seek wisdom on the pathway toward spiritual maturity, for which I am grateful. As renowned Unitarian minister A. Powell Davies wrote nearly 60 years ago, “Life is just a chance to grow a soul.”
and organizational obstacles before you. If you’re willing to work through those, then your great congregational potential can be unlocked. At their best, religious communities encourage, support, guide, and challenge us as we learn to be and become our best selves. I want the Unitarian Church of Lincoln to become the very best that it can be, and I want that for each of you as well. I hope that the next 4½ months prove to be a time of learning and growth for all of us, together. Yours in faith, Rev. Justin Osterman
My job as your Interim Minister is to reflect back to you, as a congregation and institution, how you appear to outsiders. I had hoped to do that over a longer period of time, but will need to accomplish that task over the next 4½ months. Your successful renovation of the church is a major accomplishment and it leads me to believe that you are capable of much greater achievements in the future. You are a talented, dedicated, resourceful community of people and this church could be a bright light in Unitarian Universalism. You also have some cultural
Rev. Dr. Justin Osterman, Interim Minister
6300 A St • Lincoln, NE 68510 • 402-483-2213 • unitarianlincoln.org
FEBRUARY 2015
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RELIG IO US G RO WTH & LEA RNING
Exciting Times What an amazing time to be a part of history at this church! I have been coming to the Unitarian Church of Lincoln since I was six years old. I walked into the building upon my return from maternity leave to see such incredible changes! For many hours, I attended meetings where we described our dreams for the Religious Growth and Learning wing. We brainstormed thoughts on what the classrooms could look like and how the storage for supplies could change. We selected carpet samples and paint colors. We made decisions about doors and windows and cork board strips on the walls. When I saw the completed space, I was absolutely astounded by the beauty of our home. I am excited for the future of our church. I am looking forward to expanding our vision and continuing to dream about the possibilities. I can't wait to see my son grow up as a part of this community.
like to thank Trish Lanning and Tonya Haigh for leading the effort to pack, move, and unpack the RGL area, as well as Karen Heafer for helping out so much. Also, gratitude to Julie Enersen who helped to lead a spontaneous Ingathering. The entire RGL committee was amazing and I am so appreciative of their assistance. The RGL area looks phenomenal! Thanks as well to all the parents and families for their patience and willingness to be flexible during this time of uncertainty.
Peace, Faith and Love, Chelsea (and Logan)
I am so grateful to everyone who helped out while I was on maternity leave. In particular, I would like to thank Kathy Singh and Ashleigh Fuson who are the co-chairs of the Religious Growth and Learning committee. They were the glue that held the program together in my absence. I'd also
Secret Friends Secret Friends is a church tradition where the Religious Growth and Learning committee pairs up adults and children to exchange notes and get to know one another on Sundays.
Save the Dates! •Secret friends sign-up will be: March 1, 8 and 15 •Matches passed out: March 22 •Exchanges: March 29, (break over Easter) April 12 and 19 •Luncheon and Reveal: April 26
FEBRUARY RGL CALENDAR Preschool Class and Nursery Care are available every Sunday for younger Pre-K children in the Preschool Room.
Feb 1
Regular Classes
Feb 8
Regular Classes
Feb 15
Regular Classes
Feb 22
Regular Classes
6300 A St • Lincoln, NE 68510 • 402-483-2213 • unitarianlincoln.org
FEBRUARY 2015
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NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS OUR WHOLE LIVES The Unitarian Church of Lincoln will offer Our Whole Lives classes to students currently in Kindegarten-1st grade and 4th-5th grade in the coming months. The K/1 session will be Sundays after service, February 8, 15, 22 and March 1. Parent(s) or guardian(s) attend all classes with their child. The 4/5 session will be Sundays after service, March 22, 29 and April 12, 19. Parent(s) or guardian(s) attend first and last class with their child. Registration will be held the first week of each session. Look for location information in the Order of Service on Sunday morning.
From the UUA website: "Our Whole Lives helps participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. It equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality." Classes will be led by Bruce Raymer, with assistance by Robin Bowman, Ashleigh Fuson, and Bob Fuson.
Your Interim Update
In The Once and Future Church, Loren Mead writes:
offered by BJ Wheeler
Coming to terms with the past means the congregation comes to a place where it is able to look at its past, lay to rest its ghosts, value its heroes and heroines, honor its special story, forgive itself for its faults, and gain energy for a new stage of its journey.
Were you there? About forty of us were at the January Congregational Conversation “Coming to Terms with History, Part 2.” We divided into five groups and interim team members led a discussion based on “pivotal experiences that had a profound effect on your view of the church”. Each group made lists and discussed them although our time seemed short. Our lists were remarkably similar. A condensed version of the lists is included below. The discussion was based on the assumption that we must remember and acknowledge our past in order to make decisions about what we want for the future of our church. Remembering that in another year or so, we will begin the process of choosing a new minister, in this interim period, we have a unique opportunity to interact directly with each other with guidance from Dr. Osterman and make decisions about qualities of leadership we need and appreciate. The interim is not just about clearing the boards for a new minister; we need to use this period to learn about ourselves and to grow. Please join us for the next “Congregational Conversation.” We need your input. Our next conversation is slated for after Service on Sunday, February 21.
Pivotal points seemed to center around these topics: Governance: new forms of governance with more participation from a larger number of congregants. Social Action: civil rights, abortion, welcoming Congregation for LGBTA, and Green Sanctuary. Stewardship: taking collection, meeting our budget, successful capital campaign, and pride in the new building. Music and worship: Some people were pleased at the congregational participation and our choir, others lamented the loss of professional performances; honoring of the inclusion of music as part of the service; children’s presence and participation; goals of increasing diversity in the congregation seem to be proceeding, but are we inviting to all people regardless of socio-economic status or other factors?; differing qualities in sermons were remembered and members’ participation was praised. Interim Team: Evelyn Weymouth, BJ Wheeler, Becky Seth, Wesley Botham, Jerry Petr, Rev. Justin
6300 A St • Lincoln, NE 68510 • 402-483-2213 • unitarianlincoln.org
FEBRUARY 2015
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EV ENTS A C TIV ITIES NEWS & & ANNOUNCEMENTS GUATEMALAN TASK FORCE PROJECT: “COOKING FOR THE GUATEMALAN DREAM” SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FOR “WOULD BE” IMMIGRANT YOUTH
Following on the success of the “becas” project for Guatemalan children, the UU Guatemalan Task Force is taking on a new project: “Cooking for the Guatemalan Dream.” This program is for Guatemalan youth, ages 16-20, to learn the culinary skills for obtaining jobs in the Guatemalan restaurant trade. Initiated by former immigrants to the U.S. wishing to preserve the Guatemalan culture and economy, this program has located an accredited trade school to teach 15 students. What is now needed are scholarships for the students. To participate in this program each student needs a $2,000 scholarship. The UU Guatemalan Task Force has taken on as its goal the funding of one of these scholarships by $2,000 by June 2015. There are a number of ways in which members of the church may contribute. One is individual contributions. Another is to attend two benefit concerts. The first will be Frailin’ Hearts (Roger Geery and Schuyler Geery-Zink) on Friday February 20, 7:30PM at Meadowlark Cafe. The second will be the Bobby Fuson Jazz Quartet later this Spring also at the Meadowlark. Other opportunities for contributing will be announced later this Spring. For more information about the program and how to make a contribution contact the following individuals: Lee Manns lmanns@unl.edu, Jerry Petr jlmapetr@aol.com or Duncan Case frankcase4346@gmail.com.
FRAILIN’ HEARTS BENEFIT CONCERT Roger Geery and Schuyler Geery-Zink
YOUTH SCHOLARSHIPS “COOKING FOR THE GUATEMALAN DREAM” FRIDAY FEBRUARY 20, 7:30PM MEADOWLARK CAFE
Board of Trustees
President's Message offered by Curt Donaldson
On January 20, the Board of Trustees voted to seek a second interim minister for the second interim year beginning August 1, 2015. We will work diligently with Dr. Osterman in the remainder of his year to evaluate his insights and recommendations. Then we look forward to the perspective that a second interim minister will add to our time of reflection and preparation for calling our next settled minister.
Beyond Therapy Sunday, February 1 • 2:00PM • Firespring
The Angels Theatre Company continues their Salon Reading Series with Christopher Durang's script Beyond Therapy. The 2 PM reading is at the Firespring offices - 1201 Infinity Court, Lincoln, NE 68512. This script is not suitable for children. Admission is by donation.
Reynard the Fox Sunday, March 1 • 2:00PM • Firespring
ATC is collaborating with the Nebraska Girls Shakespeare Company for this reading. More details at www.angelscompany.org
All Church Potluck Sunday, March 1 • 11:15AM • Sanctuary
Mark your calendar and join us Sunday, March 1, after service for an all-church potluck co-hosted by the LGBTQA and Newcomer committees. Please bring a dish to share and your own table service. Hope to see you then!
February Gallery Space The Gallery Show in February will be colorful and informative posters describing wonderful auction items on which to bid.
6300 A St • Lincoln, NE 68510 • 402-483-2213 • unitarianlincoln.org
FEBRUARY 2015
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NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS unable to attend the kick-off event, you will still have the chance those Sundays to get a bid number and place your bids on meals, services, or items, not to mention life-altering experiences, offered by one of our generous donors. Bid often and bid high so that your chance to win the dinner, discussion, goods or devilishly good fun you have set your sites on doesn’t “self-destruct” before you have a chance to claim it.
MISSION POSSIBLE: 2015 AUCTION KICK-OFF Friday, February 6 • 6:00PM • Gallery
Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to hold Friday, February 6, 2015, 6–8 PM on your calendar for a great social event: the church auction kickoff. When you arrive, you will receive your bid number and can enjoy conversation while eating a light meal. Then we will open the Tasty Treat Table silent auction. Yes, you will be able to take your silent auction winnings with you that night (bring a box…you might need it)! When all understand the auction procedures, poster bidding will commence in the Gallery Space and continue until February 22, 2015. For three Sundays (and weekdays if you are in the building) poster bidding will continue. In fact, if you are
If you have enjoyed the auction in years past or if you have never attended this major fundraiser, you will NOT want to miss this evening (wait a minute, this month) of fun and fellowship that continues all year as you enjoy the auction items you purchase. On Friday, March 6, we will host a Payment Party from 5– 7PM. During that time you will be able to come to church, pick up and pay for your items (we’ll notify the winners in advance.) We invite you to contribute to the work (and all out playfulness) of the church by participating in this event as both a donor and bidder. If you have questions, please contact one of the members of the auction team: Karen Heafer kheafer@neb.rr.com Barbara Pearson barbarapearson@neb.rr.com Cyn Monohon cynmonohon@hotmail.com Jackie Egan egan@neb.rr.com
RE-ENERGIZED BUILDING COMMITTEE
Changing Things Up
Sunday, February 22 • 11:15AM after Service
offered by Karen Dienstbier, Membership Director
If you have an interest in helping keep our newly renovated building looking nice and in good repair, please come to the Building Committee meeting on Sunday, February 22 after service. We have much to catch up on in learning about our new building. There will continue to be minor repairs and other needs that come up where help will be needed. We need several people to know about the fire sprinkler/alarm system, thermostat operation, the geothermal heat pump system, where main water shut-offs are located, etc. As well as where some tools and other repair items are located. If you have any questions, please talk to Harry Heafer at church or by email: hheafer@neb.rr.com.
We are changing things up a bit this winter/spring. In place of the Camp Wednesday’s four week programs that we usually offer on Wednesday Evenings in February we are offering a four-week program after Church in March. This new “Sunday Brunch Series” will include a potluck lunch or a brown bag lunch incorporated into it. This new approach will hopefully attract more people to stay for the discussions with Dan Wheeler on the topic of Servant Leadership. See page 8 of this newsletter for all of the details. Please register by filling out the registration form found on the lavender insert on the back of the calendar inside your newsletter.
6300 A St • Lincoln, NE 68510 • 402-483-2213 • unitarianlincoln.org
FEBRUARY 2015
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NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS Sunday Brunch Series
Servant Leadership offered by Dan Wheeler •Are you a servant leader? •Do you want to be one? •Who do you believe is a servant leader? •Do you see UU values and servant leadership as being compatible? •Have you asked yourself “would I be a good addition to the Board of Trustees?” Perhaps you are the very person the board is looking for!
MARCH 8 - VIEW OF SERVANT LEADERSHIP A little history and basic concepts. Greenleaf said “Servant Leadership begins with a natural feeling of wanting to serve and leadership arises from that service.” Exploration of the concept of a calling to serve, internal or external. When have people experienced a calling in their lives? MARCH 15 - FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE OF SERVANT LEADERSHIP We will begin by exploring what serving means as a fundamental principle of Servant Leadership is meeting the highest priority needs of followers and associates. Then Emotional Healing is a central idea to Servant Leadership. No other leadership philosophy even mentions it. The idea is that as we travel through the many changes and transitions in our lives they can lead to unfulfilled hopes and dreams. Servant leaders facilitate the process of dealing with these changes and also address their own emotional healing. Participants will have the opportunity to explore how this concept applies to their lives. MARCH 22 - INTRODUCTION OF THE TEN PRINCIPLES OF SERVANT LEADERSHIP DEFINED BY WHEELER (2012). We will explore some of the principles in which people have a particular interest. Two that typically are of interest: Means are as important as Ends and Develop More Servant Leaders.
MARCH 29 - LEAVING A LEGACY TO SOCIETY We’ll begin by discussing the Principle: Leaving a Legacy to Society both from a personal and institutional perspective. Our last session will also explore any questions generated through earlier discussions and reflections. Additionally we’ll examine how we measure up to Greenleaf’s criteria for successful Servant Leadership.
Each Sunday we will meet in the Sanctuary at 11:30AM and finish by 1PM. Participants have the option of bringing a brown bag lunch or a potluck dish to share. It will be helpful if you can attend each week to gain the maximum from the experience. The registration form for this Sunday Brunch Series is on the lavender insert on the back of the calendar in this newsletter. You can also find registration forms at the Welcome Table in the front hallway across from the coat racks.
Statement from Dan Wheeler: “My work focuses on leadership development and dealing with change. My particular specialty is Servant Leadership with the development of an instrument the Servant Leadership Questionnaire (SLQ) and a book Servant Leadership in Higher Education:Principles and Practices (2012). Additionally I have provided administrative development for higher education leaders, particularly department chairs for 25 years. I have also worked with a wide range of clients in the public and private sectors. In the course of my career, I have developed many programs to develop leadership development and address organizational issues. I am now an independent consultant after retiring as Professor Emeritus from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.”
6300 A St • Lincoln, NE 68510 • 402-483-2213 • unitarianlincoln.org
FEBRUARY 2015
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NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Green Corner Offered by Becky Seth, Green Sanctuary Committee
Perhaps you know that at the 2014 General Assembly, the UUA passed a resolution to cease purchasing securities of the CT 200 fossil fuel companies and to divest UUCEF direct holdings in these companies within five years, retaining small amounts of stock in those in which the UUA is engaged in shareholder activism. It further resolved to invest in those securities that will support a swift transition to a clean energy economy. You can find the complete resolution here: http://www.uua.org/statements/statements/ 296727.shtml The Board statement cited the following three reasons that it supported this resolution: “First, our role is to use our limited resources to achieve the greatest good… we do not feel it right to profit from the destruction of our planet, particularly when that destruction disproportionately affects those already at their margins. Second, we understand from financial experts that divestment can be compatible with sound investment practices and will not necessarily negatively impact our portfolio. Third, this gives us an opportunity to boldly live our values in the wider world.” You can find the GA discussion (pros and cons) on divestment here: http://www.uua.org/ga/virtual/ 2014/business/vi/296143.shtml February 13 and 14 has been designated as Global Divestment Day. The list of the largest fossil fuel stocks can be found here: http://gofossilfree.org/ top-200/ As individuals we might consider joining in this effort if we have the resources to do so. More information on Global Divestment Day can be found here: http://gofossilfree.org/usa/event/ global-divestment-day/
The Green Sanctuary Committee will be meeting on Monday, Feb 2, 7:00PM at church to discuss next steps for our committee. Please join us!
“God, Creation and Climate” Saturday, March 21 • 8:30AM • Mammel Hall UNO College of Bus Admin, 6708 Pine St, Omaha
Nebraska Interfaith Power and Light, “facilitating the faith community’s response to a changing climate” is holding a conference on Saturday, March 21, 8:30am-1:00pm at Mammel Hall, UNO College of Business Administration, 6708 Pine St, Omaha. The keynote will be given by Dr. Richard Miller, Professor of Theology at Creighton (and a VERY impressive man) and there will be two breakout sessions with a variety of interesting choices. Becky Seth hopes to go and would like others to consider it so the Unitarians have a presence. Tickets are $20 each if two or more register together by March 1. The price includes lunch. If anyone is interested in going please contact me for further info: becky_seth@hotmail.com, 402-475-7978.
Good and Bad Bills? 2015 Nebraska Legislative Session: Taxes, Environment, Medicaid, Prison Reform Tuesday, February 3 • 7:00-8:30PM • Sanctuary
The Lincoln Chapter of Nebraskans for Peace presents a panel followed by audience discussion. Free and open to the public. Speakers: •Dylan Grundman, OpenSky Policy Institute fiscal analyst on taxes. •Duane Hovorka, Nebraska Wildlife Federation on the environment. •John Krejci, correspondent, Nebraska Criminal Justice Review on prison reform. •Molly McCleery, attorney, Health Care Program, Appleseed Center on Medicaid. Cosponsored by Nebraska Chapter, NASW The Unitarian Church of Lincoln The Nebraska Wildlife Federation The Nebraska Appleseed Center
6300 A St • Lincoln, NE 68510 • 402-483-2213 • unitarianlincoln.org
FEBRUARY 2015
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O N - G O I N G A C TI V I TI ES The fellowship activities and discussion groups listed below happen on a regular basis and are open to new participants at any time. Please contact the group’s organizer if you have any questions! Adult Game Night
Men’s Potluck
UU Meditation Sangha
On Haitus
Monday, Feb 9 • 6:30PM 6300 A Street • Gallery
2nd, 4th (and 5th) Wednesdays 7:15PM • 1834 Ryons Street
All men are invited to attend to enjoy good food and conversation. Table service will be provided. Bruce Raymer 402-475-7875 bruce.raymer@gmail.com
When you enter the front door, please leave your shoes in the foyer and come in to the yoga studio through the French doors to your left. Contact LauraLee Woodruff 402-770-9382 holybear47@gmail.com
Bridge Groups Intermediate Group Every Tuesday • 2:30PM 6300 A Street • Gallery
Coordinator: Jackie Egan egan@neb.r.com 402-435-6111
Advanced group Every Wednesday • 1:00PM 6300 A Street • Gallery
Coordinator: Earl Kramer krameyer@neb.rr.com 402-489-8213 Want to join us? Contact us prior to the day of the game.
Coffeehouse Friday • Feb 27 • 7:00PM 6300 A Street • Gallery
Board games for adults and kids. Open to all individuals. Hosted by the LGBTA Welcoming Cmte. Contact Deb Hope debra.a.hope@gmail.com
Newcomers First Sunday Chat Sunday, Feb 1 • 11:15 AM 6300 A Street • Library
Meet with visitors and friends in the Library to watch and discuss a 10-minute film called "Voices of a Liberal Faith.” Contact Karen Dienstbier 402-489-7545 membership@unitarianlincoln.org
PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) 4th Tues. • Feb 24 • 7:00PM Unitarian Church 6300 A Street
The Unitarian Church remodel is complete and PFLAG’s first meeting back in the new space will be in February. As always, confidentiality is very important. www.pflagcornhusker.org
Men's Discussion Group
Tai Chi
2nd & 4th Tues. • Feb 10 & 24 7:00PM * The Legacy, 5600 Pioneers
Every Wednesday • 6300 A Street Gallery • 5:30PM Beginners, 6:30PM Intermediate
This is an open group which welcomes new participants at any time. Contact Duane Polzien 402-540-5025 duaneep2000@yahoo.com
Women’s Book Group Every three weeks •10:00AM 6300 A Street • Library
For more information, contact Diane Richards dianemn2@gmail.com February 14: War Brides, by Helen Bryan March 7: Blood and Thunder: the epic story of Kit Carson and the conquest of the American West, by Hampton Sides March 28: The Meaning of Names, by Karen Shoemaker
Zen Meditation Every Thursday • 7:00PM 6300 A Street • 4/5 Room
We are a small group of UU's who meditate at church each week. Contact Norm Simon 402-435-0225
All UU Members and Friends are invited. No experience necessary. Contact Karen Dienstbier 402-489-7545
6300 A St • Lincoln, NE 68510 • 402-483-2213 • unitarianlincoln.org
FEBRUARY 2015
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TH A NK Y O US THANK YOUS
Newcomer Discussion Group
Thank you to all who have welcomed newcomers and visitors during the month of January. Ours is important work. Thank you for being a part of it. Chelsea Krafka and the RGL Committee would like to extend a HUGE THANK YOU!!!! to “Santa Claus” who has given the church two new flat screen televisions! We are very excited and grateful. Jean Helms and the Office would like to extend a big thanks to all of the official and unofficial Office Posse folks who continue to help unpack, sort and organize dozens of boxes of office supplies, files and archives. You are appreciated!
Sunday, March 8 • 11:15AM • Library
We are starting a new group! The Newcomers Discussion Group will be led by Arlen Etling and Stephanie Lewis. The first meeting will take place on March 8 after church in the Library. This will be a get acquainted meeting where we will discuss how to proceed with beginning the group. If you are new to the church and would like some help figuring out how everything works AND make new friends too please plan to attend the meeting. Arlen can be reach at aetling1@unl.edu Stephanie can be reached at stephlewis2@hotmail.com
S UN D A Y S ERV IC E V O LUN TEERS January 25
February 1
February 8
February 15
February 22
Pulpit Decoration
Debbi Barnes-Josiah
Cindy Maly
Karen Heafer
Vicki Treat
Barbara Ellis
Greeters
Jerry & Mary Ann Petr
Kay Hoff, Martha Horvay
Jack & Carol Carlson
Sheila & Orvis Wall
LaVonne & Gene Hanlon
Coffee Hosts
TBA
TBA
TBA
Jesse Metcalf
TBA
Trustees
Reed Maly
Priscilla Handy
Lindsay Bartlett
Reed Maly
Liz BonneyHeermann
Ushers
Megan McGuffey, Arden Hill
Gary Colvin, Priscilla Handy
Jackie & Bob Egan
Deb Hope, Lori Straatman
Brooke Downing, Bruce Raymer
Audio-Visual
Keith McGuffey
Roger Geery
Michael Reinmiller
TBA
Michael Reinmiller
Welcome Table
Gene & LaVonne Hanlon
LauraLee Woodruff, Deb Bevard
Connie Benjamin, Linda Hellerich
Nick Guenzel, Tim Johnson
Jan Buffum, Jan Hostetler
Chalice Lighters
None
None
None
None
None
6300 A St • Lincoln, NE 68510 • 402-483-2213 • unitarianlincoln.org
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FEBRUARY 2015
O U R C O M M U N I TY Thank You’s
Milestones, Millstones, Stepping Stones Condolences to Martha Horvay after the death of her father J. Benjamin Horvay Jan 12, 2015. He was 96. Martha also grieves the passing of her mother, Jean, in December 2014.
Long-time church member Judy Cole has been moved to Madonna Rehab Hospital after major surgery. She welcomes visits and cards. She is in Room 206 in the Hospital wing on the second floor.
Please keep Kathie Hiatt in your thoughts. Kathie's mother is home after suffering a broken hip. Kathie's step-father has or will be entering hospice soon. Kathie would enjoy cards or emails to khiatt2@unl.edu or 3840 A Street, Lincoln, NE 68510.
Congratulations to Molly and Dan Payzant who had twins on December 29, 2014. Both girls weighed in at 6 lbs each. Welcome to Violet and Willa Payzant; we look forward to meeting you!
S TA F F & LA Y LEA D ERS Staff Rev. Dr. Justin Osterman, Interim Minister • dro@unitarianlincoln.org Fritz Hudson, Minister Emeritus • fhudson@uuma.org Charles S Stephen, Jr. Minister Emeritus • patandcharles@windstream.net Chelsea Krafka, Religious Growth Dir. • religiousgrowth@unitarianlincoln.org Jean Helms, Administrative Director • admin@unitarianlincoln.org Julie Enersen, Worship Arts Director • worshiparts@unitarianlincoln.org Karen Dienstbier, Membership Associate • membership@unitarianlincoln.org Christina Strong, Administrative Associate • associate@unitarianlincoln.org
Board of Trustees Curt Donaldson, President Lindsay Bartlett, Vice-Pres Liz Bonney-Heermann, Sect Priscilla Handy Cindy Maly Leslie Ryan Penny Urwiler Charles Coley Reed Maly Molly Klocksin
Management Team Christine Starr Davis Bob Haack Kathy Disney Officers: Hess Dyas, Co-Treasurer Linda Ager, Co-Treasurer Jo Donohoe, Assistant Mary Sommermeyer, Capital Campaign Treasurer
The Board of Trustees meets on the third Tuesday of each month at the Church. Any member or friend of the church is welcome to attend these meetings.
Church Office 6300 A Street Lincoln, NE 68510 Office Hours August 15 - June 14: Sunday: 9:00 AM—1:00 PM Tues-Fri: 9:00 AM —3:00 PM Closed Monday & Saturday Phone: 402.483.2213 Email: admin@unitarianlincoln.org Website: www.unitarianlincoln.org The Beacon is published monthly. Newsletter subscriptions are $20 a year. This newsletter is printed on 35% minimum post-consumer content recycled paper. It is also available online at www.unitarianlincoln.org/news