President's Message

Hello fellow UUFD members and friends,

What can I do to become a more empathetic communicator? When I first hear or learn about something concerning, do I tend to jump to conclusions and arrive at a judgement before fully comprehending the full story or context and exploring all perspectives? Do I share this information without clearly understanding all viewpoints in such a way that it harms others? Have I learned to wonder when something is unclear or not in agreement with my own ideas? Do I remember all of us are human and as humans we can and do make mistakes?

Here at UUFD I’m part of a community of strong-minded, independent individuals. All of us are used to, and maybe are expected to, make immediate decisions. Those decisions and judgements sometimes can be based on incomplete or misunderstood information that can cause inadvertent harm to others in our community. Sharing snap judgements can start or reinforce rumors, creating additional harm.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

Our common read, “On Repentance and Repair,” addresses the harm we cause either inadvertently or intentionally, and the processes it recommends are usually applied after harm has occurred. Yes, the book describes transforming oneself into an individual that no longer causes a particular kind of harm, perhaps correcting a pattern of behavior. But as I read it, it struck me that what I should strive for is stopping this type of harm from ever occurring in the first place.

In today’s world, it is even more important to communicate clearly and completely to avoid misunderstandings. In addition, I will try to learn to suspend judgement, to take a deep listening breath or two before responding to something that might, at first, seem troubling, to reread a worrisome email before firing off a quick reply, and generally to try to live by the quote, “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”

With gratitude and respect,

Steve Govreau

Love courageously. Inspire spiritual growth. Work for justice.

A Message from Rev. Barbara

Many Ways of Sharing Ministry

The topic of “shared ministry” is currently in the air here at UUFD. Actually, shared ministry is always present in our UU congregations because it’s the way we create relationships in our liberal organization, under congregational polity. Shared ministry is just what we do when we come to church. However, conversations about shared ministry are especially engaged right now as the UUFD Ministerial Search Committee invites discernment about the nature of shared ministry, while the congregation looks ahead to a new professional minister starting in late summer 2024.

Often also referred to as “shared leadership,” shared ministry is part and parcel of the liberal approach to religious life. Contrasting with orthodox systems, liberal faith is largely non-hierarchical in its organizing of people and programs. Liberal faith is nurtured by a sense of mutual co-creation, identified as the “Prophethood of All Believers” by the theologian James Luther Adams and others. Shared ministry means no one is left out, and habits and activities are as comprehensive and diverse as possible. Shared ministry is also mission-based, responding to collective covenants and visions, not driven by individual needs and preferences. 

In recent weeks I’ve heard many requests for a definition of shared ministry. I’ve sensed that some folks are hoping for a fairly concise explanation of its meaning as well as its realization in congregational life. Alas, as with much in the Living Tradition of Unitarian Universalism, with no single way to do things, the meaning and living in of shared ministry is flexible and constantly evolving. The term was first used in the mid-twentieth century among UU women’s groups, an enhancement to recognize the all-important contributions from laity, to see those contributions as “ministry” rather than “tasks” or “chores.” The sense of “sharing” continued to evolve, to encompass laity and professional UUs. Perhaps a review here of some ideas I offered during the service and transition town hall on October 15 can expand all the more your current understanding of shared ministry. In order to prepare for those conversations with the most up-to-date interpretations, I contacted several UU minister colleagues: you can guess that I heard at least as many different definitions or explanations of shared ministry as the number of colleagues who responded to my queries.

My colleagues did describe one mode of shared ministry which I expect most readers of this newsletter think of first: that is, the relationship between a congregation and the professional minister. What is important to realize is that there are no hard and fast definitions of the balance of that sharing: in any given ministry setting, in any given congregation, the sharing is worked out through conversations and covenants about the nature of relationships. However, there are many other combinations of leadership which create the relationships of shared ministry. For example, in large congregations, shared ministry is the sharing between the several professional ministers on staff. Additionally, some of the UU national offices refer to shared ministry as the sharing of work across staff teams, that is, across different subject areas, such as faith formation, music, and clergy. For some, the relationship between clergy and board is shared ministry. Stepping outside the walls of the congregation, shared ministry is also the interdependent relationships among UU congregations, as well as the connections from UU members (clergy and lay) to the national association, and connections from UUFD congregants to this greater community of Durango.

Here at UUFD I hope you experience many of the different types of shared ministry I have just outlined. Notice the sharing in worship planning and leadership, among professional staff, trained lay leaders, and congregants of all ages. Or see the shared ministry in UUFD’s program of Faith Formation, involving laity and staff. Or the partnerships at many levels between the professional minister and the Board of Trustees as governance leaders. So many different types of shared ministry here at UUFD!

There are always ways for more laity to get involved in UUFD’s shared ministry. How are you, dear reader, sharing your ministry, your service, your gifts? Sometimes you can support the leadership of UUFD staff. Other times the staff welcomes congregational leadership in new, innovative ideas for continuing to co-create this community of liberal faith. Through a mindset of shared ministry, as we enhance relationships, we also nurture a spirit of Beloved Community.  Shared ministry is good for UUFD. Indeed, shared ministry is good for the world.



In Faith and Joy

Rev. Barbara

Sewing Change: Days for Girls

Social Responsibility and Justice Team Special Feature

It’s not hard to find reasons to be grateful to live in the U.S., especially in light of recent human tragedies in many parts of the world. One thing we may neglect to appreciate about our country is that women and girls are not excluded from daily life due to cultural shame surrounding menstruation.  

Globally, women’s reproductive health is shrouded in stigma, taboos and misinformation. Menstrual stigma makes women more susceptible to poverty, hunger and disease. While the evidence is still developing, we know that without access to available, safe, affordable period products - and safe and convenient facilities with water and soap - menstruators may experience the following in their lifetime:

Health Challenges:  Health challenges including urinary and genital infections and unmanaged menstrual pain happen when menstruators do not have access to menstrual health education and supplies.

Stigmatization and Shame: Stigmatization and shame that exclude them from everyday family and community activities occur in countries around the world. This can lead to isolation, depression, abuse, neglect, sexual exploitation and even suicide.

School and Work Absenteeism:  Challenges at school and in the workplace including absenteeism, wage loss, and difficulty focusing or performing as usual occur when women and girls cannot access cost-effective and safe menstrual health solutions. 

This is where “Days for Girls” comes in. Days for Girls is a volunteer organization that provides holistic menstrual health education and increases access to menstrual products. Since 2008, Days for Girls has distributed hand-sewn period kits for more than 3 million women and girls around the world.

UUFD hosts a local chapter of Days for Girls.  The group, led by Robbin Clark, holds “sew days” in Bowman Hall where volunteers come together to sew menstrual kits that are distributed to 125 countries.  Recently, the U.S. border with Mexico became a priority for Days with Girls, and Susan Peabody travelled from Durango to El Paso to deliver 60-70 kits.  

Many thanks to the Days for Girls team for making a positive difference in the lives of many women and girls throughout the world!

November News from Faith Formation

“It takes generosity to discover the whole through others. If you realize you are only a violin, you can open yourself up to the world by playing your role in the concert.” ~ Jacques Yves Cousteau

As we play with the Soul Matters theme for November, generosity, it’s good to remember it comes in many forms – generosity of things (of course), but of equal importance, of time, of spirit, of understanding.  It’s also important to remember none of us can do it all or be it all.  So, within your own space of generosity, embrace this other quote attributed to Theodore Roosevelt: “Do what you can, with what you have, right where you are.”  No matter how large or small these may seem, you do make a difference, as has been proven by all the wonderful things going on in Faith Formation.

Thank you, Volunteers! 

If you’ve been to service lately (and if you haven’t been, come on down—you will be welcomed), you’ve seen that the numbers for our children are growing.  This has been wonderful, and the expansion of our programs is made possible because of volunteers willing to help.  The first Sunday in October, the toddlers and preschoolers were separated into their own fun space at the back of the sanctuary.  This is made possible by volunteers who ensure these children are well cared for during service.  To each of you who stepped up for this important role, thank you.

Did you notice the great decorations in Bowman Hall for the Halloween party on October 29? We have the Faith Formation Team to thank for all of that with their imagination, contributions of decorations, and their time on Saturday to get it all put together.  To each of you who participated, thank you.

The Multi-Gen Service on October 29 was a success because of the enthusiasm of the children and because of the hard work put in by all of the Faith Formation Staff.  A huge thanks to both.

Coming Soon

December 3 – The Holiday Market

One of the traditions we’ve had for years is the market for children of UUFD to “shop” for special gifts they select for family members.  This year, the market will be a little earlier than in the past.  

Faith Formation is requesting donations for the market during November.  Look around your house, closet, and drawers for those special things you might want to contribute.  Donations from previous years include jewelry, home décor items, books, puzzles, scarfs, candles, toys, Christmas ornaments, kitchen gadgets, and so on.  Please, NO CLOTHES—scarfs, hats, and gloves are okay, but otherwise, no clothes.  

Watch for a donation box labeled HOLIDAY MARKET at the back of the sanctuary beginning the first Sunday in November.  Your donations must be received by November 30.

December 10 – The Christmas Almost-No-Rehearsal Pageant

The kids and youth of UUFD will be contributing their skills and talents to this fun and sometimes irreverent celebration of Jesus’ birth.  If you liked the multi-gen service put on by the kids and Faith Formation at the end of October, you’re going to equally like this holiday celebration.  Be looking for your loud or ugly Christmas sweaters to wear on this fun Sunday service.

After the New Year

Watch this space for the dates for Our Whole Lives (OWL) classes for the elementary school kids beginning in January.  This sexuality education presents honest, accurate information about sexuality that dismantles stereotypes and assumptions, builds self-acceptance and self-esteem, fosters healthy relationships and improves decision-making.  This 10-session program will be led by Nikki Bauer and Harrison Wendt, who became certified OWL teachers last spring.  

Adult Faith Formation Opportunities

A Creativity Matters group is meeting via Zoom on Saturday, November 11 at 10 a.m. with plans.  If you would like to participate, drop and email to Sharon Mignerey (faithformation@durangouu.org).

Adult Faith Formation Opportunities After the New Year

Plans are underway for a new book study (led by Sharon Mignerey) and a new Circles of Trust (led by Rev. Barbara) after the first of the year. Watch this space for details.

Personal Faith Development

The Soul Matters theme for November is generosity, which fits since we’re probably thinking ahead to Thanksgiving, then all the holiday celebrations in December.  It’s a time of year when we’re not only thankful but when we often want to share generously.  As you contemplate your own relationship with generosity, consider this introduction from the Soul Matters curators.

“First of all, it’s transformative. Generosity doesn’t just brighten our days; it changes how we relate to life. Let’s be honest, life can harden us. And before it does that, it often hurts us. … But then these seemingly small or sentimental gestures come our way. A person notices we forgot to bring our bus pass and pays for us before we have to ask. The neighbor shovels our part of the driveway while she does hers. … In those simple moments, the world suddenly feels less cold.  … We may still hurt, but it also feels as though life itself is trying to help. That’s what generosity does. It transforms. It also connects. Deep down we know the difference between giving and giving generously.  … When you hand over a part of you to someone else, you’re tethered. Your vulnerability meets their vulnerability. You haven’t just helped; you’ve shown you care. Both of you feel seen. And less alone.”

For your own spiritual growth and enrichment, engage in one of these exercises:

• Enrich someone else by making a difference anonymously.  The point is to demonstrate to someone else that life is generous, not that you personally are.  The other point is to let go of our own ego and any need for recognition.
• Give what you need to receive.  Do you need encouragement?  Give this to someone else.  Do you need someone to notice you, listen to you?  Notice someone else and listen—really listen—to them.  
• Journal about how your ideas of generosity have evolved since you were younger.  Who taught you to be generous?  What was your hardest act of generosity? In what ways do you long to be more generous than you are?  Out of whatever insights you gain, find ways to take your values of generosity into the world.
• Be generous with yourself.  If it’s true that you cannot give what you do not have, find ways to lavish yourself with self-care so you are rejuvenated and can give generously in the forms that enrich you.

In closing, contemplate this wonderful quote from Annie Dillard.  “If the landscape reveals one certainty, it is that the extravagant gesture is the very stuff of creation.  After the one extravagant gesture of creation in the first place, the universe has continued to deal exclusively in extravagances, flinging intricacies and colossi down eons of emptiness.”

Respectfully submitted –

Sharon Mignerey, Coordinator of Faith Formation

Just one hour needed!

Help Kathleen Adams brainstorm a theme for the annual pledge campaign after worship on Nov 5

Please join me for a 1 hour FUN brainstorming session with UUFD members to come up with a pledge campaign theme and graphic. I WELCOME ANYONE TO JOIN IN WITH FREE-FLOW OF CREATIVE ENERGY. This is the first step, and now is the time.

Believe it or not, it’s already past time for the brainstorming wheels to turn to create the foundation of the upcoming pledge campaign. In my role as the Year-Round Stewardship Chair, one of my responsibilities is recruiting co-chairs for the campaign. I consult, but I don’t “coordinate & run” the campaign. It sounds worse than it is. I’ve been working on recruiting since April without success - YET. 

The Team:  I already have a number of members ready to join in the sub-teams – the structure of the campaign is in place. 

C0-chairs, yet to be recruited, could enter with the first step under control and with subs-team already started.

Please come join in the session SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5 and 12 (if needed) after the service & reflection/townhall time.

With offers, thoughts, and questions, contact Kathleen Adams: 970-676-1022, kadams@mcw.edu.

UUFD "Orphans Thanksgiving"

Join us!

Not entertaining family or visiting for Thanksgiving? Don’t stay home alone and be lonely. Join us in Bowman Hall on Thursday Nov. 23 for a grand potluck dinner with turkey and all the trimmings and then some. Details and sign ups to follow. Check the announcements and newsletter or contact us for more info.

Cindy Miller at 2turtlerun@gmail.com  

Aline Schwob at aschwob@msn.com

Piano duets to be featured at Nov. 17 recital

The second recital in this year’s series will take place on Nov. 17 and will present piano duets performed by Cynthia Bauhof-Williams and Marilyn Garst. The program will feature music by five composers from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries beginning with a sonata by W.A. Mozart, one of the greatest composers of piano duets. Mozart wrote the sonata during his late teens, and it was probably intended for performance on the harpsichord with his sister Nannerl. The program will continue with Waltzes, Op. 39, by Johannes Brahms. The work was written in 1865 and consists of sixteen short Viennese waltzes with contrasting moods and tempos. The first half will conclude with Five Images by American composer Norman Dello Joio. The work is a second set of four-hand pieces expressly written for his children in 1966, the premiere taking place in the composer’s living room.

The second half will include two works by French composers, the first being the miniature Sonata for four hands by Francis Poulenc, written by Poulenc when he was 19. In this work with folksy short tunes and barbarous rhythms, the players are sometimes required to cross over each other. The final work will be Dolly, a collection of six character pieces by Gabriel Fauré, written for the daughter of a family friend whose nickname was Dolly. According to Howard Ferguson, the work is “meant to be played to children rather than by them.”

Cynthia has had a varied and successful career as a solo recitalist, soloist with orchestra and as a collaborative pianist with singers and instrumentalists. She was on the faculty of Pasadena City College since 1995 where she taught piano, keyboard skills and chamber ensembles. She received the D.M.A. degree at the University of Southern California where Marilyn received her B.M. degree. After moving to Durango in 2005, Marilyn served for eleven years as Music Director for UUFD and currently continues as a pianist for the Fellowship and Artistic Director of the Recital Series.

You may purchase admission on the UUFD website or at the door by cash or check.