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UUCM Newsletter
March 2019
603-673-1870
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Table of Contents

Minister's Message
Greetings!
 
"It may be a little premature to talk about spring," I thought to myself as I was scraping the snow and ice off my car this morning. But, as Mark Twain said, "If you don't like the weather in New England now, just wait a few minutes." The forecast for this afternoon is for sunny skies and temperatures well above freezing. If I wait long enough the sun will melt the snow off my car! So if there's no need to scrape, why bother!
 
I find myself leaning into spring at this time of year, yearning for light and warmth. The greening of the Earth enlivens my soul. But we're not quite there yet. We stand on the cusp of spring only to find ourselves drawn back into the grip of winter.
 
March is like that -- a time that always leaves me feeling a little betwixt and between. It's a push-me, pull-you tug of war time of year that always makes me feel a little restless, ready to get on with whatever's coming next -- and a little lethargic, very much in need of a something green and growing to get me up and out and moving.
 
There's a phase in every cycle and season of change that feels a bit like March -- neither here nor there -- which can be a little unnerving if not a little scary. Marilyn Ferguson writes:  
 
It's not so much that we're afraid of change or so in love with the old ways, but it's that place in between that we fear... It's like being between trapezes. It's Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There's nothing to hold on to.
 
So what do we do? We plan. Those of us who are gardeners pore over seed catalogs, making careful choices about what we want to grow -- imagining ourselves digging in the dirt, watering, weeding, and fertilizing -- cultivating new life. We use this liminal time to make intentional choices about the future.
 
You're doing that right now at UUCM. You're using this liminal time to make intentional choices about what you want to plant for the future. You're looking at the values you share and how you want to enliven them for a green and growing future.
 
There will be a very special, not to be missed "Spring Revels" celebration for all ages during worship on March 31. Together we'll "revel" in the greening of the Earth and UUCM's vision through song, story, and maybe even a little dance. You'll have an opportunity to help "green up" our church community by pledging to support that vision through your gifts of time, energy, and money. Together, we'll fill the Sanctuary with new life!
 
One of the most important seeds you've planted this year is being nurtured by your very capable Search Committee. You may not see a lot of evidence of it right now but there's a lot happening just below the surface. Your Search Committee is busy meeting with ministers interested in helping you grow your vision. It's especially important to support them and your new settled minister by making a pledge that will help grow your work together.  
 
So, it may feel like things are a little betwixt and between right now, but by the end of this month you'll see evidence that things are growing. This is an exciting time in the life of this congregation. I feel blessed to be able to walk with you on this journey.    
 
Faithfully Yours,
Rev. Carol
 
Sunday Worship Services at 10:30am
March 3: Making Room 
Rev. Carol Strecker
It seems as though Marie Kondo's method for tidying up has struck a chord with many Americans.  With spring right around the corner, it's a good time to think about the importance of decluttering so that we can see and make room for the soul.

>>> Spring Forward - Set your clocks ahead! <<<
March 10:  Working Together For Justice 
Rev. Carol Strecker
Working for justice is one of the core values of this congregation -- so how can you work together as a congregation for justice?  This morning we'll engage in a process of lifting up social justice issues that are important in the life of this congregation and hopefully select one or two you can focus on as a congregation. 

March 17:  Rooted in the Earth -- Celtic Spirituality 
Rev. Carol Strecker
Many people seem to be fascinated by the culture of the ancient Celts. Stories of fairy folk people and leprechauns that have their origins in medieval times capture the imagination and the people to a gossamer, otherworldly existence that's tied to the land. This morning we'll take a look at one of the old stories and what it has to teach us about Celtic spirituality and ourselves. 

March 24: Unitarian Universalist Women Visionaries 
Collaborative Worship     
The theme for March is Vision and it is Women's History Month. What better time to honor  the many contributions of UU women and to relate their achievements to our life today.   

March 31:  The Greening of Our Vision 
Jackie Davis (minister of fun) and her merry band of mischievous gardeners
Like the sun, the gifts of time, energy, and money that we share with this congregation are forms of energy that give life to our shared values. This very special service for all ages will be a "Spring Revels", celebrating the gifts of life in the greening of the earth and in the greening of our vision.  We'll pledge our gifts together and fill the Sanctuary with new life.
After the Service -- A celebratory brunch! 

Faith Formation
March Sunday Morning Circle Schedule
Mar 3 - Sunday Morning Circle  
Feeding Our Feathered Friends  
We will use recycled milk cartons and leftover, expired food from UUCM's kitchen to create bird feeders for our local birds.
 
Mar 10 Sunday Morning Circle - What Does it Mean to be of Privilege?
The children will hear some stories and engage in some thought provoking exercises that will help them gain some insight into the concept of privilege.
   
Mar 17 - Sunday Morning Circle  
Exploring Through Our Senses  
The children will use their senses to explore the world around them.
 
Mar 24 - Sunday Morning Circle - Making Kindness Rocks  
It all started with a single stone on a beach in Cape Cod and now spans the globe. The Kindness Rocks Project, founded by Megan Murphy, is based on the profound truth that one message at the right moment can change someone's day, their outlook, and, indeed, their whole life. The messages on these thoughtful pebbles take many forms: gratitude, affirmations, encouragement, and offers of hope -- all signposts along the way for someone to find at exactly the right time.  https://www.thekindnessrocksproject.com/
 
Mar 31 - Whole Congregation Worship Service   
Instead of a Sunday Morning Circle today, we invite all children and youth to remain in the Sanctuary for the entire service. Childcare and Family Room are still available.

Children & Youth Committee Update
The committee formerly known as the Children & Youth Faith Formation (CYFF) Committee is now officially the Children & Youth Committee (CYC). We invite members and friends who have in interest in our children and youth to either join the committee or offer to share a talent or help lead a Sunday Morning Circle. Contact the office to help.
 
Attention all Families  
Pizza & Song Night! March 8, 6:00-7:00 pm.
ALL AGES are invited to join Amy Conley for songs about love, peace, and our world! Instruments and donations for pizza are welcome. This will be followed by more singing at the Second Friday Song Circle. Stay as long as you are able!  Please RSVP to the office or here.

As a reminder, every Sunday we offer:
  • Free childcare (for infants through Kindergarten age) - Available every Sunday starting at 10:15am. 
  • A Family Room - Available to families every Sunday at any time during a service. In the Family Room, you can listen to the service and play with an array of crafts, books, and games. Parents must stay with their children in this room. 
And remember to join UUCM's Family Facebook Group !  It's interactive!  
 
UUCM newsNews & Activities
From Marti, UUCM Council Acting President
Thank you to everyone who participated in the meeting on February 24. Conversations like these help us to know one another better, and to move forward into our vision for the future of UUCM. To learn more about multigenerational ministry, check out the resources provided by the UUA at  
The Stewardship team's hard work and planning comes to fruition this month as we celebrate the seeds we want to plant for the future. Please attend an information meeting and make your pledge by March 31st.

Please also read the Draft Covenant of Right Relations (below). The Covenant working group would like any and all feedback you may have as they continue to craft this important statement of how we want to be together. 
 
Draft Covenant of Right Relations for Reviewcovenant
The Covenant Working Group (Candy Shirey, Leslie Bennett, Ellen Groh, Dory D'Vann, and Elise deMichael) offers the following Draft Covenant for your review and comments. (You can submit comments to anyone in the group.) 

In our interactions at UUCM, we promise to:
  • Actively reach out to each other and to newcomers.
  • Listen to each other and speak directly, with honesty, compassion, and curiosity.
  • Presume good intent.
  • Accept and appreciate one another.
  • Serve our community with generosity and good humor.
  • Be responsible and accountable for our choices.
  • Forgive each other and ourselves.

 

WITT Subcommittee for Legislative Advocacy
March 9, 10:30am 
WITT, the Women in Transition Team, provides transportation for women released from prison and has formed a new subcommittee whose mission is legislative advocacy.  Members will keep track of issues that come before NH's legislators and will be ready to take action on any that affect conditions at the state's prisons. Anyone who is interested in this work is most welcome to attend.  Contact Erna Johnson if you have questions.
 

Planting the Seeds - Stewardship 2019 / 2020
Key Stewardship Dates in March
March 10 - Brochures and pledge forms are mailed out. Watch your mailbox!
March 17 or 19 - Plan to participate in one of these Stewardship Information sessions.
March 31 - Save the date for our Spring Revels Service followed by a Celebratory Brunch catered by Debbie Maloney and Steve Opre. (Plan to submit your Pledge Form that day.)

Check out the Stewardship page on UUCM.org for more detailed information.
 
Annual Goods & Services Auction Coming Soon!
Help make the UUCM Goods & Services Auction a wild success!
Here's how you can help NOW:
  • Offer to cook your favorite food/meal.  What is your specialty? These are our best selling items and we could use more.
  • Offer a service.  Your special skill is probably just what someone needs.
  • Request a service.  If you want a special service, perhaps another UUCMer can offer it for auction. Tell us what you want to bid on.
  • Visit your favorite store, restaurant, or hairdresser and ask for a gift card. They benefit when a new customer redeems the card.
  • Offer your vacation home/condo for a weekend.    
Mark your calendar now! Be there on Saturday, Mar 30 at 7pm.  
Send email to auction@uucm.org or contact Dona Eaton.
 
Game Night - First Friday 
March 1, 7-10pm
Come to Barnum Hall for an evening of fun and fellowship.  We will meet to play board games and get to know one another better. Kids, families, and adults are all welcome. Bring a favorite game if you wish.  We will supply beverages and something sweet.  Questions?  Contact Leslie Bennett.   
 
Song Circle - Second Friday  
March 8, 7-10pmsong
People who love to sing and/or play acoustic instruments for fun meet monthly at UUCM and use the Rise Again songbook.  Contact Amy Conley.

All Women's Potluck
March 11, 11:45am 
Enjoy one another's company and learn a bit more about each other in a relaxed setting with delicious food. We'll gather in Barnum Hall at 11:45 to set up, and enjoy lunch at noon. Afterwards, many hands make cleanup fast. For questions, call Elise deMichael. 
 
'On Being' Podcast & Potluck - Third Friday
This month: Mary Oliver Interview  
March 15, 6:30-9pm
Join us on the third Friday of each month. We will start by sharing a potluck meal and listening to a Krista Tippett " On Being" podcast, which promises "intelligent conversation on religion, meaning, and moral imagination."  Following dinner, we'll talk about what we heard. It's like a book club with no homework!  Questions? Call Leslie Bennett. 
 
Sacred Circle Dancing - Fourth Thursdays
Next on March 28 - 7-8:45pm in Emerson Hall
Open to the public. All are welcome -- from teens to seniors. No experience (and no partner) necessary. Sacred Circle dances are easy to learn, and every dance is taught by leader Mary Koon.  Dances range from playful to meditative, with ancient to modern music and choreography. They are good for the body -- and for the soul!  Questions?  Contact Mary at maryfloyd62@comcast.net or 603-487-2732.
NOTE: No dance in February.

Outreach - Helping Others
UUCM Community Suppers  - HELP Wanted!
On the 3rd Wednesday every month (5:30-6:30pm) UUCM provides a free supper to the greater community and generally serves around 70 meals. 

We have a core group of volunteers, but would LOVE to have you join us.  
The jobs at UUCM are 1-2 hours. Or you can bake at home. Training and free dinner provided!   
  • Set-up team -- 4:30 - 5:30  
    • Set tables, beverage & serving area; plate bread and desserts.
  • Serving Team -- 5:15 - 6:30
    • Serve food; restock buffet and beverages as needed.
  • Clean-up Team -- 5:45 - 7:00 
    • Dish washing
    • Pot washing 
    • Bus tables, scrape & stack dishes
    • Dry dishes & put away
    • Launder dishtowels
  • Clear Dining Room and Kitchen -- 6:30 - 7:00
  • Donate baked cookies/bars.
  • Pick up bread at Dutch Epicure on 101A.
Each month Nancy Danzinger sends a message soliciting volunteers for that month.  Contact her to get on the distribution list.

 

Try it!  Volunteer at NSK This Winter
Every month we need three volunteers to help serve Sunday lunch at the Nashua Soup Kitchen.  
When: 2nd Sunday of every month (Next on March 10 )  
Time:   10:30am-2:30pm 
Duties: Setup, simple food prep, serving, cleanup 
Who:   Adults and youth 12 and older (accompanied by a responsible adult). 
You can sign up online or contact Marti Kennedy or Meghan Hoye. 
 
SHARE Collections in March
UUCM supports SHARE by 'sharing the plate' and donating to their monthly collections. Your donations help people in Milford, Amherst, Brookline, Mont Vernon.
  • Sock Month: We will collect socks for all sizes, ages, and genders  
  • Groceries: Canned Fruit, Flour, Sugar, Boxed Cake Mixes
    & Baking Supplies, Coffee & Tea, Juice, Granola
Please place your donation in marked baskets in Barnum Hall. 
  
Reminders  
Pastoral Care pcareContact
March:  Karen Walsh

Monthly Newsletter Deadline - 20th of Each Month
Monthly newsletters offer a way to plan ahead.  See all information about upcoming UUCM events in the monthly newsletter.  Articles must be sent to news@uucm.org by the 20th of each month.  
 
Weather Cancellations at UUCM
It's Snowing - Are UUCM Services/Programs Canceled?

To find out whether UUCM is closed on Sunday: 
  • Call the church at 603-673-1870. If church is canceled, the answering machine will tell you.
  • Check the calendar on the website. Look for the word "CANCELED" next to a church event in the online calendar.
  • Check WMUR-TV (News 9) or http://www.wmur.com/weather/closings and look for "Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Milford" under the letter U.
NOTE: These closure notices apply to UUCM services & programs only.  It is up to group leaders, committee chairs, and renters to notify their people if a meeting is canceled.
Closings on Other Days:
If the office is closed, there will be a message on the answering machine. It is always best to call ahead to ensure someone is in the office.  For meetings or activities, check with the group leader.

Updated Member and Leadership Directories

The Leadership and Member Directories were updated to reflect the new leadership and new members. Now that the newsletter is public on the website and no personal contact info is provided, it is especially important to make sure all your info is correct in the directories. Look for the directories online. Let Jamie know if you need to update your email address, phone number, or other information (office@uucm.org or 603-673-1870).
 
Log On to the Members & Friends Section of UUCM.ORG Why? Get the latest Church Directory, Council minutes, services provided by UUCM members & friends, ways to shop to benefit UUCM, and more. Contact commteam@uucm.org if you need help logging on. 
  
Guidelines: Bringing Food & Serving Alcohol at UUCM
Please observe UUCM's Food Allergen and Alcohol policies on the UUCM Policies webpage. 

Parking at UUCM
 
Weekdays before 6pm and Saturdays before 5pm: Park only behind the church or in the circular driveway in front (and NOT in front of the Garden Door). For more parking information (including a printable map), click here .