The Syrian Refugee committee is asking for donations of 100% cotton yarn. We would appreciate donations of  4-ply yarn in colors that are neutral/natural (not bright red, and not white). Fattoum, the mother of the family, is a good knitter and crocheter and we hope that she can make dishcloths to sell. Because the dishcloths will be used to clean---we want to avoid light colors (such as white) and we've heard that red and other bright colors tend to bleed--so please note this.  Please place your yarn donations in the Refugee Family box under the coat rack. If you have questions, please email Jeanne Kerl and thank you for considering this!

As families gather around the table during Christmas, please remember to save a seat for Guest at Your Table. Your donations support the social justice work of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee. Add coins and bills to your box; and if you write a check or collect $125 or more, your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the Shelter Rock Church. What a great way to contribute during this season of giving. Bring your boxes back to church at our multigenerational service on January 29. You can leave them in the office if you cannot find a member of the Denominational Affairs Committee (Karen Courtright, for example!).

On Saturday, January 21, starting at 10am, there will be a march in Washington, D.C. and in cities across the country (including Chicago). Its purpose is to show "solidarity with our partners and children for the protection of our rights, our safety, our health, and our families, recognizing that our vibrant and diverse communities are the strength of our country".  You can read more about the mission on their Facebook page Women's March on Washington.

 

If you want to go to D.C., or have already made arrangements to go, we invite you to join with other Unitarian Universalists as a statement of organizational support, and increased solidarity. The Women's Circles have selected Julie Milner to coordinate a group from UCE. Click here for more information .

(How) do the yoga sutras apply to contemporary yoga practice and contemporary life? How do these philosophies intersect with and diverge from Unitarian Universalist principles? What does it mean to be a yoga practitioner? Although yoga is most often recognized by its physical postures (asanas), practitioners may also use breathing techniques (pranayama), meditation, chanting, and dietary restrictions.  Historically, yoga was more of a philosophy for living than an exercise regimen, including ethical guidelines for personal growth.   We will use Patanjali's  Yoga Sutras, considered one of the foundations of classical yoga practice, as our historical touchstone and Michael Stone's book  The Inner Tradition of Yoga as a way of connecting the sutras to contemporary life.  Suitable for practitioners, those considering becoming practitioners, and those who are interested in learning about the practice that is becoming widespread in the United States, including two classes weekly at UCE.

Facilitated by Jessica Tomell Presto, UCE member and certified yoga instructor.  Register here   or on the Religious Education bulletin board.