Board Update: “Possibilities”

By Linda Battaglini, Board of Trustees Member

“And now let us welcome the new year,

full of things that have never been.”  

--Rainer Maria Rilke

Our Soul Matters theme this month is “Possibilities”. If ever this theme had special meaning for our congregation, now is that time. This is my first year serving on the Board of Trustees. We are going through a period when the existing structures and ways of doing things seem to be primed for change.  After a career doing strategic planning and governance work for hospitals, I’ve gotten very comfortable with uncertainty and ambiguity.  That is when I’m most interested in getting involved, when the feeling is that there must be a better way, when something new is called forth, when we make the most of the Possibilities we face. This requires our best creativity, teamwork, trust in each other, and the faith that we can find our way together.   Read more >>

Helping to Tell UUCA’s Story

By Betsy Rosenblatt Rosso, Ministerial Search Committee

My path to UUCA has roots in a town in Romania that no longer exists, and High Point, North Carolina, with Juicy Fruit chewing gum, homemade pound cakes, unsent wedding announcements, and good questions from my husband scattered along the way. Choices made long before I was born set in motion opportunities and experiences in my life that have shaped who and where I am today.

My paternal grandfather arrived in New York from Romania at age 16. The town where he came from would later be obliterated by the Nazis, after his family had joined him in America. He married my grandmother, whose parents had immigrated from Hungary, and they raised three kids in a small apartment in the Bronx. They were Jewish and my dad remembers getting sleepy from sips of Manischewitz wine during long Passover Seders led by his grandfather.  Read more >>

Deadline for Registration is delayed until January 20!

 Register Now to Compete in the Chili Cook Off 

Due to this week's snowstorm, we've delayed the registration deadline to Sunday, January 20. You still have a chance to compete! If you’ve always dreamed about being a chili champion, now is your chance! Register here: goo.gl/oMnvjb Prizes for: Best Meat Chili and Best Vegetarian Chili, as well as Best Name! Please find even more detailed information through the registration link. Registration closes on January 20, 2019, so register now!

Chili Cook Off is January 27!

Come hungry to sample all the vegetarian and meat chilis and cast your vote for your favorites! Thanks in advance for your support and we hope to see you at this fun multigenerational event! All proceeds going toward Youth Service Trips.

Date: Sunday, January 27, 12:15- 1:30 p.m.

Location: Fellowship Hall and Center Gallery

Multigen Game Night This Saturday!

All are invited and welcome to a multigen game night. Games for kids and families 4 to 6 p.m. Beginning at 6:15 there will be time for parents and adults to play games as well. Childcare will start at 6:15 for kids who are no longer playing games, ages 5 and younger. Bring a favorite game or play one of ours. Dinner will be picnic style—bring your family’s dinner or have dinner beforehand.  

Date: Saturday, January 19, 4 to 6 p.m. Games for kids & families; 6:15 p.m. Game time for adults.

Location: Activity Room

Family Mindfulness Classes

On the third Sunday of each month, the Insight Meditation Community of Washington offers a Mindful Tweens and a Mindful Family class here at UUCA. Please join in to share mindfulness practices for fostering greater balance, compassion, and awareness in the midst of the highs and lows of everyday family life. No pre-registration required.

Date: Sunday, January 20, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Location: Chapel and Welcome Room

Next (Semi) Multigen Worship Service

Sunday, January 20: Preschool through 4th grade will meet as usual. 6th, 7th, 8th grade will meet as usual. 5th grade and high school youth will stay for the whole service.

Jobs/Camperships: Apply Now!

Central East Region Summer Institute (CERSI) is a family friendly Unitarian Universalist (UU) camp which takes place each year for a week in July. Deadline for job applications is February 1. Learn what campership jobs are available here.

Upcoming Winter Adult Education Workshop

Conflict Transformation

While conflict can be scary and divisive, it is also possible for conflict, when approached in a healthy manner, to be an opportunity for growth and learning. Rev. Terasa is trained in the approach of “Conflict Transformation” that assumes that conflict is not something that can be “managed” so much as processed in a way that can be transformative. This method has been used in contexts such as the South Africa Truth and Reconciliation process, and in peace negotiations in Ireland. We will explore our own personal responses to conflict, look at what brain science has to teach us, examine system theories, and practice ways in which groups can create opportunities for healthy conversations. Check here for registration. 

Date: Saturday, February 9, 1 to 4 p.m.

Location: Activity Room        

Capital Area Bluegrass and Old-time Music Association Jam Comes to UUCA

The new year brings "new" old-time music to UUCA! CABOMA jams are now being held here at UUCA on the second and fourth Sundays of each month, from 2:00-6:00 p.m. Anyone interested in CABOMA is welcome to come and visit and/or participate in a jam. At most jams, you will find a wide range of music skill levels, from beginners to professional musicians. We encourage participants to bring and play traditional, acoustic bluegrass and old-time music instruments. For more information on CABOMA, visit www.caboma.org.

Date: Sunday, January 27, 2-6 p.m.

Location: Parlor and Rooms 14, 16

Share-the-Plate: The Sanctuaries DC

Sunday's STP offerings will go to The Sanctuaries DC, an artist cooperative in the District. The Sanctuaries just turned five years old and in that time it has recruited, trained, and supported hundreds of artists of intentionally different racial and spiritual backgrounds who use their artistic skills to advance social change. Founded and now co-directed by UU minister Rev. Erik W. Martinez Resly, The Sanctuaries has used art to amplify the impact of the Poor People's Campaign, Youth Climate March, March for our Lives--and has showcased historically marginalized (spiritual!) voices at the Smithsonian, Woolly Mammoth Theatre, Kennedy Center, and much more. Your generous donations help them make a new home in Ft. Totten after being displaced from their studio in Ivy City due to gentrification.

Donations are accepted for each week's STP recipient through the following Saturday at midnight.  Make online donations here. 

MLK Community Events

Below is a list of community events that honor and celebrate The Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., and his legacy. All events are free.

8th Principle: A step in ending all oppressions

UU congregations across the nation have been voting on the proposed 8th Principle. The Unitarian Universalist Association will vote on it at a future General Assembly. UUs of color have requested passage of the 8th Principle by our whole organization.

The proposed 8th Principle states that: We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, covenant to affirm and promote: "journeying toward spiritual wholeness by working to build a diverse multicultural Beloved Community by our actions that accountably dismantle racism and other oppressions in ourselves and our institutions.”

This 8th Principle would join the seven others which include human dignity, the democratic process, respect for the interdependent web of all existence and other tenets that are the basis of Unitarian Universalism.

UUs many times have been in the forefront of abolishing legal segregation, helping immigrants and refugees and addressing many other social justice issues.

We have learned a lot and even learned that there is so much that we don’t know about the enduring aspects of racism. The 8th Principle supports us and keeps our focus on the journey of ending all oppressions. For more information on UUCA's 8th Principle initiative, visit www.facebook.com/UUCA8thPrinciple/

Better Angels Workshop

“When you understand someone, you are less likely to fear them”

- Jan 12 workshop participant

More than 20 members of the UUCA community gathered last Saturday for a workshop exploring how to build trust and understanding between people from different political perspectives. It was an intense and wonderful session that reaffirmed the importance of embracing diversity of all kinds, including political diversity. To help continue this difficult but rewarding work, UUCA will host another Better Angels workshop on March 23. This Red/Blue workshop will bring conservative and progressive participants together for a day of structured conversations, with the goal of increasing mutual understanding and seeking common ground. All are welcome to attend! To register, visit this link. Questions? Contact Sarah Yue, [email protected].

Date: Saturday, March 23, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location: UUCA Activity Room

VOICE Taking on New Challenges in 2019

Virginians Organized for Interfaith Community Engagement (VOICE) is charging into the new year with a game plan that includes taking truth to power and making the most of anticipated changes in northern Virginia. And as always, we need your help.

UUCA members already know the slated Amazon headquarters will be affecting property values and livability, and VOICE is planning the best approach to the issue through our elected officials.

VOICE will be engaging our representatives directly in Richmond, supporting Governor Northam’s proposal to eliminate the suspension of driver’s licenses and cash bail. We are revved up to attend legislative sessions Thursday, Jan. 17 and Friday, Feb. 8, and encourage anyone who feels powerless to join us in making our voices heard. We have organized carpools. For more information, contact Kate Trygstad at [email protected]. 

 

Locally, VOICE has thrown support behind American Legion Post 139’s plan to redevelop its 1.29-acre site near the Virginia Square/GMU Metro Station into a 160-unit affordable housing community, with preference given to veterans, and in partnership with APAH. Members of VOICE attended the December review meeting with neighbor advocates. The county board will vote on the project Feb. 23. Please help us stand up for struggling veterans. For information how, contact Patricia Findikoglu, [email protected].

Early American Black Women Writers

Come and join a discussion of the writings of black women writers. There is no advance reading; selections of poems and essays are provided at the meeting. Usually, we explore the work of early writers from the 1700’s to the early 1900’s. Though at the January meeting, we will focus on a contemporary poet, Tracy K. Smith, poet laureate of the U.S. We will read several poems and excerpts from her memoir, Ordinary Light. Smith is the author of four poetry collections, including the Pulitzer-winning Life on Mars. Questions? Ann Ulmschneider, [email protected].

Date: Wednesday, January 16, 2019, 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Location: Welcome Room

January Allyship Workshop

As part of our congregation's Live the Pledge campaign to end racism, UUCA has partnered with Service Never Sleeps to offer a racial justice Allyship training. Over 200 UUCAers have already taken this training. Now it’s your turn! This workshop teaches about the causes of racial injustice, how to be an effective ally for marginalized communities, and how to actively influence and educate others. More information and sign up here. Questions? Contact Alex Ziehm, [email protected].

Date: Sunday, January 20, 1:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Location: Parlor (Room 13/15)

African American Book Sharing

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou is the book for discussion at the next African American Book Sharing on January 18. A Penguin/Random House review describes this book “…as joyous and painful, as mysterious and memorable, as childhood itself. [This book] captures the longing of lonely children, the brute insult of bigotry, and the wonder of words that can make the world right.” Questions? Contact Linda Lutes Corsoro, [email protected].

Date: Friday, January 18, 7:30 p.m.

Location: Welcome Room 

Men's Book Group: A Legacy of Spies

Due to last Sunday's cancellations, the Men's Book Group will meet this Sunday, January 20, to discuss A Legacy of Spies, by John Le Carre. (The group normally meets the second Sunday of each month.) This book is the first "Smiley" novel in 25 years. It's a great time to join the group. Whether you've read the book or not you are welcome to come and give your opinion on upcoming types of books and/or titles. Questions? Please contact Ken Marshall, [email protected] or 703-533-8004. 

Date: Sunday, January 20, 7:30 p.m.

Location: Chapel

Register Today

UUCA Peace Camp 2019:

June 24-July 5

See us in Fellowship Hall after services for more information

Help your child explore a path to peace in a unique and enriching summer camp program--Peace Camp. Campers (ages 5-14) explore cooperation and conflict resolution in a safe and supportive environment. At Peace Camp, campers discover that peace begins with them. 

Campers can attend both weeks or just one. Registration is now open here.  

Questions? Find out more in Fellowship Hall after services this Sunday, January 20. 

Week 1: Mon 6/24 to Fri. 6/28

Week 2: Mon. 7/1 to Fri. 7/5, except Thurs. 7/4

Peace Camp is a partnership between UUCA Peace Ministry and Little Friends for Peace.  

Furloughed Folks, Friends, Fellowship, and Food!

The past two Wednesdays a group of furloughed workers, along with UUCA staff and Pastoral Care Associates, connected over lunch to share stories and simply enjoy each other's company. Plans are to continue this gathering each Wednesday through the end of the furlough. EVERYONE is invited to join in. Retirees, stay-at-home-parents, currently employed that can break-away for lunch--everyone is welcome to come for the fellowship and to show your support. This Wednesday the church staff will host a baked-potato bar. You can brown-bag it or join us for the potato bar. Extra hands for clean-up are always appreciated. And, staff welcomes any help in hosting these luncheons. Email [email protected] to let us know of your interest.   

Optional after the lunch: Members of the Lay Pastoral Care Associates will be available to facilitate a support group--a place to share stories, express hopes and fears, and find comfort in the support of others.   

 

More on the Furlough

UUCA has a personals bulletin board on the upper floor, near the restrooms. We encourage those of you who are looking for occasional jobs (tutoring, offering music lessons, shoveling snow, etc) to post a notice here. If you’re looking to hire someone, please also post on the bulletin board.

 

Here are links for applying for unemployment benefits:

 

Many congregants have asked how they can help furloughed workers. In addition to using the bulletin board when you need to hire someone, we encourage you to support our partner organizations that provide direct assistance. In particular, the Arlington Food Assistance Center offers groceries to those in need. Also, non-affected congregants who can keep their pledge payments current or can contribute ahead of schedule, please do so. Many furloughed workers need to delay their pledge payments.

 

Our ministers and lay pastoral care associates are available for pastoral counseling. Call the pastoral care hotline, 703-892-2565 x-1213. You can also contact Sarah Masters, Director of Congregational Life, for additional assistance, [email protected]. 

Artist Reception - This Sunday

Everyone is invited to the artist reception for the closing of the current "12x12" art exhibit in the Center Gallery. This is your last chance to take in one of our most successful shows featuring UUCA artists. The exhibit includes oils and acrylics, photography, mixed media and fiber art. Come meet the artists and hear the stories behind their pieces of art.

Date: Sunday, January 20, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Location: Center Gallery

New Pastoral Care Gathering

Death Cafe

A Death Cafe gathering seeks to increase awareness of death with a view to help people make the most of their (finite) lives. It's a safe, welcoming place in which people share their ideas, concerns, fears, and hopes about death. Death Cafe's have become a global movement. There have been thousands of Death Cafe gatherings held throughout the world. From the administrative details of death and dying to the most profound spiritual or philosophical issues, all topics are welcome. Mark your calendar for January 20. Come for the coffee, tea and cake, and stay for what promises to be interesting and stimulating conversation. Questions? Contact Colleen Duewel, [email protected]

Date: Sunday, January 20, 2:00 p.m.

Location: Activity Room

New UU Class

Unitarian Universalism is a way of thinking and being in the world. It is a faith discipline, enriched by faith traditions, that forms the foundation for a way to live this life. It matters how we conduct our lives and work to make the world a better place. Unitarian Universalism wants each of us to know why. It challenges us to deepen our own faith principles and practices in response to our own experience and, whenever possible, to stand on the side of love. There will be plenty of chances to ask questions and to get to know others in the class. It's also part of the path to membership at UUCA.  Rev. Dr. Terasa Cooley will be leading the class. The class is free and includes dinner, but registration is required.  Register here. Free childcare is available upon request. Contact [email protected] for more information.

Date: Tuesday, January 22, 6 to-9 p.m.

Location: Fellowship Hall

A memorial service in celebration of the life of Thurlow Wilson will be held on Saturday, January 19, 2:00 p.m. in our Sanctuary. Washington Post obituary.

NEW newsletter deadline: Connections deadline for submissions is EACH Monday at noon with publication on Wednesday. See below on how to submit an announcement.

How to submit an announcement to UUCA's Connections newsletter:  

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