A Unitarian Universalist Congregation
Join us for worship and religious education!  Services and Religious Education Classes take place on Sunday morning at 9:15 and 11:00am
February 24, 2017
Sunday, February 26    
Worship Service  -  9:15 and 11:00am
"Home: The View From Senior High"
 
Members of our senior high youth group will share their thoughts and feelings through words and music. This is a worship service for all ages. 

Childcare for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers is available from 9:00-12:30. 

Crackerbarrel - 9:30am
"The Supreme Court and Original Intent"
Neil Gorsuch, our president's nominee for the Supreme Court, and Merrick B. Garland, Obama's pick, are both widely regarded as brilliant jurists and very qualified. However, on important constitutional issues, it is highly likely Gorsuch would trend right and Garland would trend left. We will discuss how the different Weltanschung of each of the two translates into their view of the Constitution, and what the term 'original intent' mens. Discussion Leader: Scot Campbell Click here for upcoming topics.

Non-Fiction Book Group - 12:30pm
We will read and discuss The Third Reconstruction: Moral Mondays, Fusion Politics, and the Rise of a New Justice Movement, by William J. Barber II, and Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove.  Rev. Barber participated in the 2016 General Assembly and has a strong message for UU's. All are welcome to join the discussion.
 
Join us to stand in support of Black Lives Matter
12:10pm-12:30pm
You are invited to stand on Ridge Avenue between 12:10pm and 12:30pm to support the Black Lives Matter movement.  Signs and buttons are available for purchase at the back of the sanctuary. Signs and song lyrics will be provided for use.  Sponsored by the REAL team.

The Chris Isely Cancer Support Group -  9:15am
The group is open to anyone facing cancer, either personally or through a family member or friend. This lay-led group is a safe place for sharing and hope. Interested participants are encouraged to drop in any time. Questions? Contact Renee Hoff  or Brian Meister.
Experience the amazing talents of some amazingly talented UCE members and friends! This fun multigenerational event is sponsored by our Journeys students and mentors as a fundraiser for their Boston trip. Tickets are available at the special rate of $10 for adults (age 12 and up); $5 for children (age 5-11); maximum $25 for families. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
Concerned about what's happening in the world but don't know how to get involved? Come to our first Journeys to Justice session, led by our Faith in Action Minister Scott Aaseng.  We'll share what's calling to each of us, and talk about ways to move into action. Representatives of UCE social justice teams will share what they're doing and upcoming opportunities for action. Newcomers and longtime members alike are welcome. Contact Scott for more info.
Recently Retired (but never retiring!) Women
Tuesday, February 28, 5:00pm  retiredwomen
After our amazing potluck in the back of the Sanctuary, Claudia Dancing will lead a discussion centering on: Now that we are retired, is it worth our taking risks? Why or why not? Don't we deserve being able to sit back and enjoy our lives? What might happen if we do decide to "be Audacious" and take a risk? All women in this category of being recent retirees are warmly welcome to attend. It will be Mardi Gras, as well! Contact Marjorie Rogasner with any questions.
Green Team Movie Night
Friday, March 10, 7pm at UCE greenteammovie
Please join the Green Team for movie night!  We will be viewing and discussing the documentary film "Tapped," which examines the role of the bottled water industry and its' effects on our health, climate change, pollution, and our reliance on oil. Feel free to bring a snack for yourself or to share with others.  Click here for more information about the film. Questions?  Contact Heather Brown  We hope to see you there!
We are caught between Postmodernism and the legacy of the Enlightenment. This conflict affects how we think of science, other cultures and even liberal religion. The class shows how we got here and suggests that we need more reason, not less. Recommended: The Enlightenment: A Very Short Introduction and Postmodernism: A Very Short Introduction. Facilitated by Rev. Jerome Stone, UCE's Affiliated Community Minister. A former United Church of Christ pastor and philosophy teacher, Jerry is the author of A Minimalist Vision of Transcendence and Religious Naturalism Today.  

Click here for a list of readings.

Click here to register.
 
Click here for information about upcoming Adult Religious Education programs sponsored by the Learning Associates.
2017 Soup Kitchens soupkitchens
UCE hosts soup kitchens when our neighbor Beth Emet is celebrating the Jewish holidays.  We have added two dates this year to assist Second Baptist Church.  March your calendars for the following dates:  Wednesdays - April 12, September 20, 27, October 4 and October 11 at UCE and Mondays - August 14 and August 21 at Second Baptist Church. Click here to sign up. For questions, contact Winnie Stevenson or Marilyn Wroblewski
New Additions to the REAL Lending Library  real
Check out the new collection of children's and young adult books at the REAL lending library. Both collections are small, but we are just beginning, so keep watch!

Since we have a new two-sided cart, look on both sides to find them if they are not in plain sight on the bottom shelf.
One Book, One Church onebookonechurch
Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankin "throws a Molotov cocktail at the notion that a reduction of injustice is the same as freedom." (NY Times) This book length poem about race and the imagination is the chosen book for our coming discussions. Called one of the best books of the year, you will not want to miss one of the discussions on February 25 - 9:30am, March 5 - 12:30pm, or March 26 - 12:30pm. You can find the book at Book H. 
Caregiver Support Group Exploratory Meeting
Tuesday, March 7, 7pm caregiversupportgroup
Whether it be caring for an ill family member, a handicapped child, an aging parent or any of a number of other caregiving arrangements, talking with others who understand and who "have been there" can be helpful.  If you are in a caregiving role, we invite you to come to an exploratory meeting on Tuesday, March 7, at 7:00 p.m. at UCE to share ideas on how we might create a Caregiver Support Group at UCE.  Topics will include group purpose, format and guidelines.  If you are interested but cannot attend this first meeting (or have any questions), please contact Renee Hoff or Joyce Lofstrom.
Women Making Change womenmakingchange
Saturday, March 25, 6pm
Let's celebrate Women's History Month with dinner, conversation and a question: What can we learn from the stories of black women in Evanston about the way forward? Speakers will include Dr. Cheryl Johnson-Odim, Morris (Dino) Robinson, Joanne Avery, Karli Butler and others. Sponsors include Shorefront Legacy Center, YWCA Evanston-Northshore and the Unitarian Church of Evanston (where the event will be held). All are welcome, details to follow.
Composting at UCE compost
You may have noticed and wondered about the two green containers at the southeast corner of our church parking lot.  They are vital links in UCE's commitment to caring for our green planet by diverting waste from our landfills.

You can easily become a part of this commitment for a small annual contribution of $60 per person (up to a $180 maximum per household).  If you are interested in joining this movement, contact the church office (by mail or in person), or fill out this form and email it to Carli Magel, or return it to the church office. For an additional $10, we will provide you with your very own kitchen counter composting bucket.  (Plastic bags are not acceptable containers because they are not compostable.)

If you have any questions about this program, please contact Compost Program Coordinator John LaPlante at church or through the church office.
UCE/Countryside Church UU Camping Trip August 11-13, 2017
Kettle Moraine State Forest, South Unit, Dousman, WI camping
Please make your reservations soon for another fun church camping trip.  This is a very informal trip, with time together or apart, as you wish. We have a potluck on Saturday night, and lots of opportunities to hike, swim, boat, visit small towns nearby, and have campfires.  It is a great opportunity to get to know other UCE and Countryside members better. 

Please complete the form and turn in by March 31. Payment of $55.65 is required.  The $55.65 covers 2 nights of camping ($23/night) as well as the $9.65 reservation fee.  Upon arrival, there is a $22 vehicle sticker fee as well.   Reservations can be limited and are offered on a first come-first served.   All checks must be made payable to: Unitarian Church of Evanston. Please write "Camping Trip" in the memo. Drop off the form with payment in the "camping folder" in the church office.

Contact John Bolling or Dale Griffin for information.
Ministers' Schedules

Rev. Bret Lortie  is available on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and by appointment. Monday is sabbath and Friday devoted to writing. To send a message or read Rev. Bret's blog, visit  www.liberalfaith.org .
 
Rev. Connie Grant is generally in the office during the day on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and often has evening meetings on those days. She takes Mondays off and works at home on Fridays. Please email or call Connie for an appointment.
[email protected]. (847) 864-1330 ext. 103 (office); (847) 840-8542 (cell).
Upcoming UCE Events

Saturday, Feb. 25, 9:30am
One Book, One Church


Saturday, February 25, 6:30pm
UCE's Got Talent


Tuesday, February 28, 5:00pm
Recently Retired (but never retiring!) Women


Sunday, March 5, 12:30pm
Journeys to Justice


Sunday, March 5, 12:30pm
One Book, One Church


Tuesday, March 7, 7pm
Caregiver Support Group Exploratory Meeting


Friday, March 10, 7pm
Green Team Movie Night


Sunday, March 19, 12;30pm
Pledge Day


Saturday, March 25, 6:00pm
Women Making Change


Sunday, March 26, 12:30pm
One Book, One Church


Thursday Nights, 5:30pm
Meditation Group


Thursday Nights, 7pm
UCE Addictions Ministry Group


Sunday Mornings, 8:15am & Wednesday Mornings, 9:30am
Yoga


Saturdays at 10:00am
Open Drumming Circles

Community Involvement
Click each event for more information.
 
YWCA Let's Talk at Lunch
Third Thursday of the Month
 
Pledge Day

Sunday, March 19, 12:00-2:30pm


Join us for free lunch, music, art and kids activities to celebrate the end of our upcoming annual pledge drive (March 5-March 19.)

Door prizes (get your name in the drawing by getting your pledge in by the 19th!)

Please sign up at the back of the sanctuary on Sunday or email Michael Skilton with number of people and any dietary restrictions.
2017 General Assembly

Persons who would like to attend General Assembly in New Orleans June 21-26 but would need some financial assistance should contact Lee Bannor [email protected] as soon as possible.  
Save the Date! 

Put a big circle around
May 5th and May 6th
When our RUMMAGE SALE will astound!
 
It's never too early
to start organizing things,
so for set-up week
find those treasures you'll bring!

Hosted by State Senator Daniel Biss, State Rep. Robyn Gabel, State Rep. Laura Fine, and the Unitarian Church of Evanston

Monday, February 27, 7:00pm
Doors open at 6:30pm


Learn about the biggest concerns, challenges and threats to civil liberties and what you can do to protect your rights in a discussion with the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, ICIRR, and Equality Illinois.
UU Identity Discussions

Continued learning opportunities offered monthly by the New Member Committee; open to all who want to better understand what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist, no matter where you are on the membership journey:

Principles and Sources Class 
1st Sundays 10:15 - 11am
Whether you are new to Unitarian Universalism or you would like to better understand the seven principles and six sources of our faith, join us for this rich 45-minute discussion led by members of the New Member Committee. We ' ll use thought provoking metaphors to dive deeper into the foundations of being a UU.  Next Principles & Sources Class: March 5 between services.
 
Spiritual Journeys - 
a 3-part conversation
2nd, 3rd, 4th Sundays 
at 10:15-11am 
We'll explore our religious and spiritual backgrounds, where we come from, what we want to cherish and what we want to release as we continue our journeys. This is a conversation open to all no matter where you are on the path - exploring membership, new members and long-term members alike. You can participate in any one or all three in any order. 
Next Spiritual Journeys Sessions:  2/26.
 

Yoga at UCE


Join us every Sunday at 8:15am and every Wednesday at 9:30am.

Yoga at UCE is designed to reduce stress, bring relaxation, increase range of motion, and find balance - restorative yoga. If you never have done yoga before, this is your opportunity. Drop in, wear comfortable clothing for stretching, and try it. Yoga is learned by doing. Community yoga mats provided if needed.

Opportunities
 for Spiritual Practice

Upcoming Membership Classes

For those who are thinking about becoming a member of the church.

Intro to Unitarian Universalism 
Sunday, March 12,  12:30 - 2pm
Led by Rev. Bret Lortie, we'll look at our history, our principles, the sources of our faith, and the meaning of covenant. (This is the first step in the membership process.) 

Orientation Toward Membership 
Sat. March 25, 9am - 12pm
Led by Rev. Connie Grant, Membership Director Eileen Wiviott, and members of the New Member Committee. An interactive class exploring our spiritual journeys, the diversity of our beliefs, and what it means to be a member of this congregation. (This is the second step in the membership process.)

Sign up at the Guest & Member Table in the lobby or email  Eileen Wiviott. There will be childcare available upon request in advance for both of these classes. 
| 847-864-1330 | [email protected] | http://www.ucevanston.org
1330 Ridge Ave.
Evanston, IL 60201