1. Art and Diseño

Our Church Circular
First Unitarian Church of San José * February 2015 * febrero 2015
160 N. Third Street, San José, CA 95112 * (408) 292-3858 * sanjoseuu.org
Loving our History
—Creating our Future!
Please join us to build a vision for First
Unitarian’s 150th Anniversary!
In 2015-16, the First Unitarian Church of San José celebrates the
anniversaries of these significant events in our history:
FNovember 25, 1865: Rev. Charles Gordon Ames gives a sermon that
sparks the formation of a Unitarian church in San José.
FFall of 1866: Actual formation of Unity Church (that was our original
name!)
FFall of 1891: Cornerstone of our church building was laid
FOctober 16, 1995: Church fire occurs, from which we “rose from the
ashes” better than ever.
The 150th Anniversary Celebration Committee, commissioned by our
Board of Directors, plans a series of celebrations for 2015-16. We
envision a big party in fall 2015 to mark the 20th anniversary of
the fire and the 150th anniversary of our spark: the Ames sermon.
Picture a fire truck parked outside the church on a Sunday, and the San
Jose Fire Chief (who helped to fight our fire and save the church 20
years ago) and other public officials and contributors honored for their
service. Look what they did—look who we’ve become, thanks to the
hard work of all involved!
We want to conclude with a celebration in fall 2016 to mark the 150th
anniversary of our naming and the 125th anniversary of the laying of
the cornerstone. All through the year we will hold commemorations
and events that connect us to our heritage and reach out to the wider
community. Most of all, we will lift up the past in order to build on the
present and create our next 150 years!
How can we make this year of celebration fun, spiritually enriching,
and community building, while also increasing our visibility and sharing
our Unitarian Universalist message in the wider world? Please bring
your ideas to the Ramsden Fireside Room for our 150th Anniversary
Planning Forum on Sunday, February 8 at 12:45 p.m.
by Madeline Morrow
The committee’s own brainstorming so far includes:
FA “history moment” (skits, readings, inspiring stories) every Sunday
in worship
FA First Unitarian history exhibit at the Martin Luther King Jr. Library
FChurch tours for the community
FAn invitational art exhibit focused on themes from our history of
working for social justice
FA concert (or concerts) featuring ensembles that began in this church and
other professional musicians (like Judge LaDoris Cordell and her friends)
who are special friends of FUCSJ
FTheater events—how many theater companies have used our space?
FAn anniversary book
FDisplays inside church, on the website, a banner on our building …
Let’s create a vision for the future as we celebrate our history! Questions?
Please contact coordinators Robert Strong ([email protected]) and
Madeline Morrow ([email protected]).
Love as a Verb
by Nikira Hernandez, Minister-in-Training
In preparing for this month’s theme “Love”, I realized that I did
not have a clear definition of love. This seemed quite an oversight, so
I began to research. I texted my friends “I’m writing a sermon for Feb.
1 on ‘love’. What’s your definition of love?” The results were beautiful
and quite unique. No one came up with anything even remotely similar
to anyone else—except for the two people who quoted the same
person. They were quoting the book “all about love” by bell hooks,
where she talks about love not as a feeling, but rather as a verb. Love
is something we do for other people—and certainly for ourselves. This
definition of love makes it clear that those actions which hurt (from the
silent treatment to child abuse) are not a part of love. Naming love as a
behavior and being clear about what love is not allows us to draw clearer
lines in our families and communities against violence and unhealthy
relationships. Through love as a verb, we are making love visible in word
and deed when we take loving action without causing harm.
February Theme: Love / Thema de febrero: el amor
Amando Nuestra Historia
—Creando Nuestro Futuro
por Madeline Morrow
y tranucido por Roberto Padilla
¡Por Favor únansenos para Construir una Visión para el 150 Aniversario de la
Primera Iglesia Unitaria!
En el año 2015-16, la Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José celebra los
aniversarios de estos sucesos importantes de nuestra historia:
F25 de noviembre de 1865: El Rev. Charles Gordon Ames da un
sermón que provoca la formación de una Iglesia Unitaria en San
José.
FOtoño de 1866: La formación real de Iglesia Unidad (que fue
nuestro nombre original!)
FOtoño de 1891: Se colocó la Piedra Angular del edificio de nuestra
iglesia
FOctubre 16 de 1995: Se produce un incendio en iglesia, de la cual
nos “levantamos de las cenizas” mejor que nunca.
El Comité de la Celebración del 150 Aniversario, comisionado por la
Junta Directiva, planea una serie de celebraciones para 2015-16.
Visualizamos una gran fiesta en otoño del 2015 para conmemorar
el vigésimo aniversario del incendio y el 150 aniversario de nuestra
chispa: el sermón de Ames. La imagen de un camión de bomberos
estacionado afuera de la iglesia el domingo y el Jefe de los Bomberos
de San José (quien ayudo a combatir el incendio y salvar a la iglesia
hace 20 años) y otros funcionarios públicos y contribuyentes honrados
por su servicio. Miren lo que hicieron—miren en lo que nos hemos
convertido, gracias al duro trabajo de todos los involucrados.
Queremos concluir con una celebración en el otoño del 2016
que marca el 150 aniversario de nuestra denominación y el 125
aniversario de la colocación de la piedra angular. Durante todo el año
tendremos conmemoraciones y eventos que nos conectan con nuestra
herencia y llegar a la comunidad en general. Sobre todo, levantaremos
el pasado con el fin de crear el presente y los próximos 150 años!
¿Cómo podemos hacer este año de celebración divertida,
enriquecernos espiritualmente y la creación de comunidad, mientras
que también incrementamos nuestra visibilidad y compartir nuestro
mensaje Unitario Universalista en el resto del mundo? Por favor traiga
sus ideas a la Ramsden Fireside Room para el Foro de Planificación de
nuestro 150 Aniversario el domingo, 8 de febrero a las 12:45p.m.
La lluvia de ideas del comité hasta ahora incluye:
FUn “momento de la historia” (parodias, lecturas, historias
inspiradoras) todos los domingos en los servicios
FLa historia de la Primera Iglesia Unitaria exibida en la Libreria Martin
Luther King Jr
FVisitas de la iglesia para la comunidad
Page 2 FInvitacion a una exhibición de arte centrada en temas de nuestra
historia del trabajo por la justicia social
FUn concierto (o conciertos) presentando ensambles que iniciaron
en esta iglesia y otros músicos profesionales (como la juez LaDoris
Cordell y sus amigos) ¿quiénes son amigos especiales de la FUCSJ
FEventos de teatro—¿Cuántas compañías de teatro han utilizado
nuestro espacio?
FUn libro de aniversario
FExibiciones dentro de iglesia, en el sitio web, un banner en nuestro
edificio...
!Vamos a crear una visión para el futuro mientras celebramos nuestra
historia! ¿Preguntas? Por favor, póngase en contacto con los
coordinadores Robert Strong ([email protected]) y Madeline
Morrow ([email protected]). l
Amor como un Verbo
—por Nikira Hernández, Ministra en formación
En la preparación para el tema de este mes del “Amor”, me di cuenta
que no tenía una clara definición del amor. Esto parecía un descuido,
así que empecé a investigar. Envié a mis
amigos “Estoy escribiendo un sermón
para el 1 de febrero para el ‘amor’.
¿Cuál es su definición de amor?”
Los resultados fueron hermosos y
absolutamente únicos. Nadie sugirio
nada ni remotamente similar a nadie—
con excepción de las dos personas
que citaron a la misma persona. Ellos
estaban citando el libro “todo sobre
el amor” de Bell Hooks, donde ella habla sobre el amor, no como un
sentimiento, sino como un verbo. El amor es algo que hacemos por
otra gente—y ciertamente para nosotros mismos. Esta definición del
amor pone de manifiesto que aquellas acciones que lastiman (desde el
silencio al abuso de niños) no son parte del amor. Nombrando el amor
como un comportamiento y siendo claro sobre qué es el amor no nos
permite trazar líneas más claras en nuestras familias y comunidades
contra la violencia y las relaciones malsanas. A través del amor como
un verbo, estamos haciendo el amor visible en palabra y obra cuando
tomamos una amorosa acción sin causar daño. l
Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
In Our Own Voices:
Love
“In Our Own Voices” shares
congregants’ free-flowing
responses to our theme. We
draw these responses from online surveys completed last fall.
The theme of “Love” evokes
questions, longings, cynicism,
pain, hope, and a deep sense of
call for Unitarian Universalists.
Certain questions show up again
and again:
FIs love real?
FHow do we love ourselves?
FHow do we honor the worth and dignity of those
whose behavior does so much harm, let alone
love them?
FIf Love lies at the heart of Unitarian
Universalism’s message, then what does it
mean, in practical terms, to “make Love visible”
in all that we do and say? “I want specific
examples!” (That’s part of my own response.)
One congregant suggests that exploring the many
faces of love this month is like planting seeds.
What shall we harvest, dear community? Won’t you
come nurture these seeds with us?
With you in the seeking,
Rev. Nancy
Questions About Love
•Love, so important in our lives and in
our Unitarian Universalist identity that
we are constantly searching for it. Yet so
indefinable and evanescent that science
can’t pin it down. Is it “real,” or a product
of our wishful imaginings?
•Does love have an arc or developmental
stages? How and when do we know if we
have finally got there?
•If Love is the Unitarian Universalist
catchphrase, how do we teach how to see
the inherent worth and dignity in each
person, even those we dislike or those who
have done horrific acts?
•How do we “make Love visible in word and
deed” every day? How do we “make love
visible” in our human relationships? I want
specific examples!
•Love does not conquer all. Sometimes
love must walk away. Are charity and
Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
sacrifice a necessary component of love?
How much and how long? I experienced
these questions in a marriage that ended
in divorce. I have also questioned love
in the face of enemies, be it unethical
corporations, do-nothing government, mass
murderers, polluters, pedophiles, etc. Is it a
Unitarian Universalist’s responsibility just to
show love or also to feel love? Is it possible
to show love and not feel it?
So Many Kinds of Love …
•In a way, Love is in the same realm as
Creation (last month’s theme): all I can
do is stand in Awe. I don’t understand it; I
can only try to appreciate it, nurture it, act
on it, make it visible. I actually have more
understanding of the falling-in-love kind of
love, which is part of life’s drive to continue
life and pass it on. Lust is so different from
long-term committed love, it’s amazing we
use the same word for both!
• So many different kinds of love. Like the
Eskimos who have so many different words
for snow, I think we should be more specific
in how we use the word love. I like respect,
warmth, intimacy, loyalty, regard, empathy,
connection, and so many other words better.
Loving Ourselves
•As Unitarian Universalists we tend to turn
outward—loving our community, loving the
earth, etc. I would like to see some of the
month dedicated to loving ourselves. So
many of us can love others so easily and
have tremendous difficulty loving ourselves.
•Let’s look at loving and nurturing ourselves.
We are hindered from extending kindness
to others if we cannot extend kindness to
ourselves.
•I have this question from the Gratitude
service last November: How do we love
ourselves right now, just as we are, even
when things don’t look so good (on the
outside)? We struggle with the inherent
worth and dignity of every person,
especially when applying it to people we
don’t like (or their behaviors). What do
we do when we don’t like ourselves? What
about shame or guilt? What can we do
when we don’t feel lovable? If Universalism
means we are all saved, then we are all
loved, right? Why don’t we always feel that
way? What can we do to “feel the love”?
•Is love real? It seems to be the first thing
to get lost in the crush of everyday life. I’m
finally working on giving myself the love
I’ve needed for so long, rather than beating
myself up about every little (and big) thing.
This feels fundamental. Next stop, can I
learn how to balance loving myself and a
significant other? I’ve never been great at
dancing, but maybe with more practice …
A Request
•Please let’s not have platitudes about love.
I have some concern about the “love made
visible” phrase, just because it’s so easy
to say. I ordered a sandwich at a place on
Third Street near San José State, and the
clerk handed it to me, saying, “It was made
with love.” He and I were both gagging at
this ridiculousness. The sandwich was dry
bread and overcooked meat.
Longings
•The kind of love we usually think about in
February is something I have not had in a
long, long time. I think many of us (single
people particularly) feel the need from time
continued on page 4
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 3
In Our Own Voices
continued from page 3
to time to remind ourselves that, in fact,
we have lots of love to give. We just don’t
always know where to put it …
•Love seems fleeting and rare to me.
Love as a Calling
•The idea of Universalism, of a loving God
that would not damn for all eternity anyone
to hell, is part of what originally drew me to
Unitarian Universalism. The expansiveness
of love as a guiding theology is part of
what has drawn me to ministry and is one
of the best definitions of the Divine that
I know. It is inclusive, aspirational, and
imminently able to be brought into daily
practice. This, for me, is my personal life
mission as well as my sense of calling in
ministry and in the larger world. It is what I
aim for each and every day: to be love, to
be more loving, to help reveal love within
others that they might see that light and
spark within themselves and connect more
deeply in community and find meaning
and purpose that inspire them to create
more justice. I have a deep love for and
loving relationship with God, which moves
me forward each day and gives me hope,
comfort, guidance, and that I rely upon in
joy and sorrow. I love the passionate love
described by Hafiz, by Rumi, by the mystics
such as Julian of Norwich for God as lover.
I think of the Course in Miracle’s teaching
that there is only love and fear, but what is
all encompassing—love—can truly have
no opposite. This guides me.
•Lack of love for portions of humanity is
the cause of many of the ills in the world.
Unitarian Universalism channels love to
provide a solution to society’s ills.
•What can I add to this theme except that
it is wonderful, essential, and in certain
cases, hugely challenging? When I am
fighting political and personal battles, I
have to leave room in my heart to love the
humanness of my opponents. Wow, is that
hard sometimes.
Planting Seeds
•Why must we talk about love in February?
It seems premature. But maybe talking
about love in February is a bit like planting
seeds. Isn’t there a Jewish ritual that has to
do with planting fruit trees that happens at
this time of year? What can we take from
its wisdom? [Note: The Jewish holiday is
called Tu B’Shevat, the New Year for Trees,
celebrated in early February this year.]
•Although it’s not uncommon to think of
Valentine’s Day as just a “Hallmark holiday,”
I like to take it more seriously, as a time to
examine commitments and relationships, so
I welcome Love as a February theme. l
Oh, friends, may we all do, and be, the work of Love
this year! — Rev. Nancy
“We stand at a
new doorway,
Awaiting that
which comes ...
Daring to be
human creatures.
Vulnerable to
the beauty of
existence.
Learning to
love.”
­—Anne Hillman, “Prayers
for Healing” heartsteps.
org/2014/life-prayer-2
Join the conversation at
facebook.com/FUCSJ!
New articles,
thoughtful quotes,
inspiration,
and beautiful photos
every week!
Likes, comments and shares help us
reach more people.
As of January 25, 435 people have
“liked” our page!
65 more Likes and we’ll hit 500!
Page 4 Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
F Gather a few families at someone’s
Love is Resilient
­—The Rev. Geoff Rimositis
This world is nothing but a school of love; or
relationships with our husband or wife, with
our children and parents, with our friends and
relatives are the university in which we are
meant to learn what love and devotion truly
are.
—Swami Muktananda, quoted in
The Inner Treasure by Jonathan Star
R
esilience can mean finding fun things
to do without spending money.
Exploring together*
F Roast a perfect marshmallow.
F Collect family photos and artifacts
and spend time sharing family stories.
home. Have adults teach a craft or
a household skill to other people’s
children, or form teams to prepare
a meal to share. Bonds outside the
immediate family can be a souvenir
children keep longer than any travel
trinket.
F If no one has a morning obligation,
stay up late.
F If you are up really early, watch a
sunrise.
one on the first turn. Each player gets
two chances. If they are unsuccessful,
they must wait their turn and try again.
To reach the second step, they must
roll a two, and so on, until a six puts
them on the roof. Each time a player
rolls a one, they may start a new shell
or pebble moving up the steps. Reward
Bringing the Grain to the
Storehouse: A Game from Mali*
Y
ou will need sand or soft dirt, a little
water, some shells or pebbles, and
a die. First, build a granary for storing
millet— a structure two feet square. Use
moist sand or dirt. On each side, hollow
out five steps, starting three inches from
the bottom. Each player starts with six
shells or pebbles, which are the millet
they must get to the storehouse roof. To
reach the first step, a player must roll a
Sifting Millet in Mali, from tazbonjourdemali.
blogspot.com/
cooperation. When a player lands on
the same step as someone else, the two
proceed together and have twice as many
chances with the die of getting the millet
to the top. Teamwork: When any player
rolls a six, every player’s millet waiting on
the fifth step goes to the roof.
*from Tapestry in Faith
A Plea: Help Keep Third Street Open to Our Youth!
Dear Friends of Third Street,
Thank you to everyone who made a donation
over the last two months, and to those who
became our Madrinas y Padrinos! Thank
you also for the warm welcome and the
special collection on January 18. We are
truly humbled, grateful, and inspired by your
ongoing support of Third Street. Thanks to
you, we are in a better position than we were
in November.
However, we are still looking for a
long term financial solution. One
part of the solution is the creation
of a 3-minute video to highlight
the impact of our work in our
community. We hope to release the
video this spring and to use it to
generate support from new sources.
Right now, there are different ways
you can help. You can become a
Third Street Madrina or Padrino by
joining our monthly giving program.
Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
Please visit our website for details. You can
open doors to corporate/foundations sources
by introducing us or “nominating” us for
funding. The process varies by source but
sometimes just an email introduction can
make the difference!
We are also in the process of planning our
next annual fundraiser for Saturday, May 2.
The theme will be “working families.” Please
save this date. If you have time, we
could use support in securing items for the
silent auction, and finding table and event
sponsors. Please contact Rosemary Baez if
you would like to discuss your involvement.
Thank you again for your support of Third
Street children!
Warmly,
Vicky Del Arenal, Board Chair and
Rosemary Baez, Executive Director,
Third Street Community Center
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 5
SUNDAY SERVICES / SERVICIOS DE DOMINGO
10:15 am
Servicios en español
11:00 am
Services in English
Todos los domingos – Alabanzas en español
February Theme: Love/ Tema de febrero: el amor
Media Hora de Reunión del Pequeño Grupo del Ministerio Multicultural. Venga
a unirse a nosotros para este servicio simple de oración-meditación de
media hora (sin sermón) a las 10:15 am en una mezcla de inglés y español
en la biblioteca de la iglesia, a la izqueirda al entrar en la puerta principal
de la iglesia. Accesible e incluyente para todos, este servicio ofrece tiempo
para cantar, meditar y reflexionar en un pequeño grupo en preparación
para el servicio de las 11: 00 am.
February 1 — 1 febrero
The Power of Forgiveness:
Loving Ourselves Present Now
Every Sunday – Alabanzas (Spanish Lauds)
A half-hour multicultural Small Group Ministry gathering. Come join us for
this simple prayer-meditation service (without sermon) at 10:15 am, held
in a mixture of English and Spanish in the Church Library, on the left when
you enter the front door of the church. Accessible and welcoming to all,
this service provides time to sing, meditate, and reflect in a small group in
preparation for the service at 11 am.
Save the Dates
FFebruary 1, Sunday, 9:45-11 am, HUUmanati Forum, Hattie
Porter Hall
FFebruary 1, Sunday, 2:30-3 pm, Community Dance — English
Country, Hattie Porter Hall
FFebruary 1, Sunday, 1-3 pm, Book Study, Board Room
FFebruary 5, Thursday, 7:15-9:15 pm, Women’s Alliance,
Conference Room
FFebruary 6, Friday, 8 pm, Dances of Universal Peace,
Sanctuary
FFebruary 7, Saturday, 10 am, Healing Circle, Ramsden Fireside
Room
FFebruary 15, Sunday, 12:45 pm, Sustainable Harvest
International Event, Sanctuary
FFebruary 15, Sunday, 1-3 pm, My Ministry to the World,
Conference Room
FFebruary 15, Sunday, 2:30-3 pm, Community Dance —
Contra, Hattie Porter Hall
FFebruary 16, Monday, 7:30-9 pm, Huumanati Monday Meeting,
Library
FFebruary 22, Sunday12:45 pm, Cowspiracy: The Sustainability
Secret, Ramsden Fireside Room
FFebruary 21 & 22, Saturday & Sunday, Circle Suppers. Contact
Barbara at [email protected]
FMarch 21 & 22, Saturday & Sunday, Circle Suppers. Contact
Barbara at [email protected]
FMay 17, Sunday, 10 am-2 pm, Blood Drive
V
You make FUCSJ what it is! Whatever your talent and availability, there is
an opportunity for you to serve. Contact Liz Owen at lowen@data-time.
com or Bob Miess at [email protected]
Page 6 Minister-in-Training Nikira Hernandez will kick off this month’s theme of
“Love” by turning us inward to look at self-love. With humor, introspection,
and a whole lot of love, we will explore what it means to forgive ourself into
being fully present with ourselves, now.
Worship Leader: Nikira Hernandez, Minister-in-Training; Worship
Associate: Dana Spinney
El Poder del Perdón:
Amándonos a Nosotros Mismos Ahora
Nikira Hernández, Ministra-en-entrenamiento iniciará el tema de este
mes del “Amor” girándonos hacia adentro para mirar el amor propio.
Con humor, introspección y un montón de amor, vamos a explorar lo que
significa perdonarnos a nosotros mismos siendo totalmente presentes con
nosotros mismos, ahora.
Dirige: Nikira Hernandez, Ministra-en-entrenamiento; Asociada de
Culto: Dana Spinney
February 8 —8 de febrero
Love Made Visible “Out There”: Community Ministry
What happens when we find ourselves called into compassionate service?
What happens when the love we have experienced sets a fire in us to make
love visible not just here but “out there,” among the people we meet in our
everyday lives? What happens when we find our commitment growing until
it becomes for us a “profession?” Throughout Unitarian and Come celebrate
stories of the ministries that unfolded as a result, and ponder how our own
personal stories have been or might be touched by a call to “ministry out
there”: Community Ministry.
Worship Leader: Bob Miess; Worship Associate: Marnie Singer
El Amor Hecho Visible “Allá Afuera”: Ministerio Comunitario
¿Qué sucede cuando nos encontramos a nosotros mismos llamados
en el servicio compasivo? ¿Qué sucede cuando el amor que hemos
experimentado pone un fuego en nosotros para hacer el amor visible no
sólo aquí sino “allá afuera”, entre la gente que encontramos en nuestra
vida cotidiana? ¿Qué sucede cuando encontramos nuestro compromiso
creciendo hasta convertirse para nosotros en una “profesión”. A lo largo
de la historia Unitaria y Universalista, la gente se ha encontrado llamada
a este tipo de servicio. Vengan a celebrar las historias de los ministerios
que se desarrollaron como resultado y reflexionar sobre cómo nuestras
propias historias personales han sido o podrían ser tocadas por un llamado
al “Ministerio de allá afuera”: Ministerio comunitario.
Dirige: Bob Miess; Adsociada de Culto: Marnie Singer
February 15 — 15 de febrero
“Spirit’s Hands and Feet”: Living Love All the Time
“We Are Sunshine in the Streets.” As the song says, we are “spirit’s hands
and feet,” so let’s set our path toward Love.
Please wear your bright yellow Standing on the Love T-shirt, if you have
continued on next page
Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
Services / Servicios continued from previous page
one—or wear something in the yellow-goldenrod
spectrum, if you don’t. Let’s create a river of
sunshine in our sanctuary this Sunday!
Worship Leader: Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones;
Worship Associates: Marta and Jeff
Norment
“Las Manos y Pies del Espíritu “:
Viviendo el Amor Todo el Tiempo
¿Podemos realmente vivir el amor todo el tiempo?
“Es a lo que aspiro cada día”, escribe uno de
nuestros feligreses. En este domingo de Estar
del Lado del Amor, daremos ejemplos de como
“hacer el amor visible en todo lo que hacemos
y decimos”—desde nuestras casas a las calles,
desde el lugar de trabajo al parque infantil. Alegría
Singers nos enseña un entusiasta nuevo himno
Unitario Universalista, “Nosotros Somos el Sol
en las Calles”. Como dice la canción, somos “de
las manos y pies del espíritu” así que vamos a
establecer nuestro camino hacia el amor. Por
favor, use su camiseta amarillo brillante de Estar
del Lado del Amor, si tiene una—o llevar algo
en el espectro amarillo-dorado, si no la tuviera.
!Vamos a crear un río de luz del sol en nuestro
Santuario este domingo!
Worship Leader: Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones;
Worship Associate: Bev Clifford
Dirige: Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones; Asociados
de Culto: Marta y Jeff Norment
Nosotros los humanosos somos estudiantes de
toda la vida en muchos idiomas y caminos del
amor. Con el amor como la enseñanza central
del Unitario Universalismo, nosotros seguimos
buscando nuevas maneras de entender el
significado del amor en todas las relaciones
en nuestras vidas. Este domingo tendremos
prácticas sobre el amor. Alegría Singers nos
trae una gran canción de los ochentas del
anhelo universal: “Yo quiero saber qué es el
amor” (extranjero). Y con el amor-lengua de
generosidad, iniciamos nuestra campaña anual
este domingo para financiar nuestros ministerios
durante el próximo año de celebraciones. ¡Vamos
a practicar los lenguajes del amor!
February 22 — 22 de febrero
“I Want to Know What Love Is”: Lifelong
Learning on the Languages of Love
We humans are lifelong learners in the many
languages and ways of love. With love as the
central teaching of Unitarian Universalism, we
keep seeking new ways to understand love’s
meaning in every relationship in our lives.
This Sunday we get practical about love. The
Alegría Singers bring us a great 1980s tune of
universal longing: “I Want to Know What Love
Is” (Foreigner). And with the love-language of
generosity, we launch our Annual Giving Campaign
this Sunday to fund our many ministries during the
upcoming year of celebrations! Come practice the
languages of Love!
“Quiero Saber que Es el Amor”: Toda la
Vida Aprendiendo los Lenguajes del Amor
Dirige: Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones; Asociada
de Culto: Bev Clifford
Join the People in the Know!
T
he newly organized Communications
Team, which manages the Website,
newsletter and Facebook page for
the Church, needs volunteers. You
can do as little or as much as you
want in preparing and releasing the
Church’s communications. We need
photographers, writers, layout artists,
reporters, and
editors. This can be
a great way to get
to know and work
with many different
people in our church.
If you are familiar
with — or want
to learn — any of
the software and
platforms we use, you
can help the team get
the congregation’s
messages out to the
public as well as keep
members and friends
up to date about our
activities and goals.
We use: Microsoft
Word, Adobe
Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
InDesign, Adobe Dreamweaver, Adobe
Photoshop to prepare materials for Our
Church Circular, the church website,
Facebook page, Twitter, Youtube…
or *your* favorite social networking
platform!
And this is urgent! We particularly
need you to volunteer before March 1,
so that you can receive training from our
senior editor, Shirley Worth, who does
layout and artwork for the newsletter and
posts to the Website and Facebook and
will be relocating to Seattle in April.
Contact Shirley Worth at shirley@
worth.org or Catherine Pelizzari at
[email protected]. l
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 7
Board Update
M
uch as we value our ministry of
gathering together for Board of
Directors’ meetings, we opted not to
convene on our regular fourth Thursday,
December 25. Instead we met on
Wednesday, January 7.
Our bylaws call for an annual audit,
and the members of the 2014 Audit
Committee were Henry Ruddle, Julie
Smith, and Karl Vidt. The committee
members found no evidence of significant
errors or omissions in our financial
records, reports, or procedures. They had
the following suggestions:
1. Review the status of contractors
such as the music director and
accompanists.
2. Perform a marketing survey of similar
rental values to evaluate the church’s
rates.
3. Produce an updated version of the
Financial and Accounting Procedures
document.
Welcoming a Guest
at Your Table
uusc.org/guest-at-your-table-for-beginners
by John Burk
E
ach year at this time, friends and
families in our congregation
participate in Guest at Your Table — a
40-year UU tradition. The Unitarian
Universalist Service Committee (UUSC)
is trying something different. You can
make your own box to collect money
for UUSC during December and January
(uusc.org/guest/inspiration). Also, John
Burk has saved the boxes from last year so
you can also pick up the traditional boxes
from him. The money will be collected
during a service on February 8.
By bringing home uusc.org/myguests
or a recycled Stories of Hope booklet
and Guest at Your Table box, families
and individuals learn about how the
UUSC puts our shared values into action.
Through a potent combination of
advocacy, education, and partnerships
Page 8 The Board made a motion to accept
the 2014 Audit Committee’s clear
report, and thanked the members for
their diligence and the commitment
of their time and energy. Motion
carried. Members of the Programs and
Operations Council (POC) will be
looking into those recommendations.
Treasurer Bill Shepard updated us on
the November budget numbers, which
continue to look good since expenses are
running below projections.
Recently the Young Religious
Unitarian Universalists seceded from
the Pacific Central District (PCD) and
formed a new youth organization, Young
Religious Unitarian Universalists of
the Pacific (YRUUP), under the auspices
of Northern California Unitarian
Universalist Camps and Conferences.
YRUUP members led two informative
meetings with interested church
members on Deember 7 and January 4.
We have invited Ruby Delgros, outreach
officer for the youth council of YRUUP
and a member of our senior high youth
group, to our January 22 meeting in order
to help us better understand this process,
any ramifications it may have for our
congregation, and our role in supporting
our youth members.
Board also deliberated on the request
from the Social Justice Council for input
for the congregational poll regarding
the proposed Statement of Conscience
on Reproductive Justice, a part of the
Unitarian Universalist Association’s
social witness process. The Board moved
to advise the Social Justice Council that
it is within their purview to respond
to the congregational poll about
whether the Statement of Conscience
on Reproductive Justice goes onto the
General Assembly ballot. Motion carried.
Our next meeting will be on Thursday,
January 22.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Coleman
FUCSJ Board Secretary
with grassroots human rights leaders,
UUSC promotes workers’ rights, upholds
the human right to water, and protects
communities at risk.
Through Stories of Hope, we connect
with leaders throughout the world who
are working hard for human rights in
partnership with UUSC. Households
are invited to share Guest at Your Table
materials when family and friends gather
together, reflect on the contributions of
these “guests” toward justice, and share
generously. Each week, we can choose
a different story to read, bringing our
guests to life and helping celebrate our
own rights. If you’d like more ideas or to
invite more people to your celebration
this year, share a meal in the name of food
sustainability. Bring your network —
friends, family, colleagues, neighbors, and
others — together for a great cause and
help raise awareness about vital human
rights work happening all over the world.
Check out UUSC’s resources, including
select recipes, and sign up today to host a
meal: uusc.org/gather.
Sharing our blessings through Guest
at Your Table ensures that UUSC’s human
rights work continues. Please consider
making contributions throughout the
program, to collect enough to be eligible
for the matching grant: any donation of
$125 or more is eligible to be matched
dollar for dollar, thanks to a generous
grant by the UU Congregation at Shelter
Rock in Manhasset, NY. This means you
could double the impact of your gift!
Please be sure to pick up your recycled
Stories of Hope booklet and box. If you
prefer, you can make your contribution
online at uusc.org/givetoguest. Our Guest
at Your Table program will run from now
until February 8. For information, call or
text John Burk at 408.259.3781 and/or
look for him after church. l
Anniversary? Shower?
Birthday? Club Meeting?
The perfect setting is — our church! Picture
your small party in the Ramsden Fireside Room
or a bigger bash in Hattie Porter Hall. See
http://tinyurl.com/fusj-rentals for details, or call
Maxine at (408) 841-7542!
Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
For more information about our programs for
children and youth please contact our family minister,
the Rev. Geoff Rimositis, [email protected]
Children and Youth Programs
C
hildren and youth in Preschool (3 years) through high
school join the community for the first part of worship at
11 am and then go to their respective classes until 12:30.
Nursery: Birth - four years
Location: Nursery, Church’s Lower Level
Childcare Staff: Danni Fernandez, Kimberly Fernandez
W
e provide a safe, clean environment in which to
support each child in initiating play activities at the
developmental level they manifest. Each week our paid staff,
Danni Fernandez and Kimberly Fernandez, provides a loving
presence, engaging children in games, stories and crafts with
seasonal and holiday themes throughout the year.
Three- to five-year-olds: The Spiritually Growing Child
T
his curriculum is based on the philosophy that young
children learn about religion through relationships. What
is a person? Who am I? How am I related to others? What are
my responsibilities? What kind of world do I live in? These are
religious questions that children begin to answer as they become
acquainted with themselves, other people, and their environment;
all responses are mediated by the significant adults in their lives.
Each week the children look and listen to an engaging picture
book that reflects the week’s central theme with accompanying
activities. Themes from September to June include: Individuality,
Earth Day, Cycles of Life, Harvest, Thanksgiving, Christmas,
Hannukah, Winter Solstice, Family, Golden Rule, etc.
Grades 1-4: Faithful Journeys
A
ll sessions include hands-on activities as well as guided
discussion, reflection, and self-expression to engage
participants with various learning styles. Sessions that rely
heavily on verbal learning and expression also offer alternate
activities that may better reach learners who are more active.
Many core activities suggest adaptations to address different
abilities as well as learning styles. Each session of this program
includes rituals: sharing opening words, a chalice-lighting,
centering in silence before hearing a story, and singing. The
goals of the curriculum are to:
• Highlight ways the small and large choices we make
represent our personal faith and beliefs
• Promote understanding of, and sense of responsibility for,
the world’s interconnectedness, and reinforce cooperation,
nonviolence, and balance as necessary for our collective
moral, ethical, and spiritual health
• Engage participants physically as well as mentally and
Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
spiritually through Move It! activities
• Foster the creation of a learning community in which
everyone is respected, welcomed and honored — a
community in which diversity is embraced, justice is
practiced, and children learn, grow and have fun together.
Grades 5-8 / Junior High Youth Group: Building Bridges
Building Bridges is a world religions program to deepen
youth’s understanding of the dynamic, fascinating, and varied
world in which they live. It seeks to broaden their knowledge
of humanity and embolden their spiritual search. Participants
will visit other religions as well as engage in class activities.
The goals of this program include:
• Increase knowledge of religions practiced around the
world and in local communities
• Understand how religion addresses basic human needs
• Foster acceptance of the diverse forms that religious
expression takes
• Build awareness of the diversity of followers within
every faith; understand that to know someone’s religious
identity is not the same as knowing what that person
thinks, believes, or practices
• Support the faith development of participants
• Empower youth to better appreciate human diversity and
connect with others and be able to respectfully discuss
important matters with people with whom they disagree
• Nurture open-mindedness and critical inquiry.
Grades 9-12: Senior High Youth Group
The senior high youth group meets on Sundays from 11:3012:30. The group offers its members a safe place to share their
lives and find support and friendship among open-minded
and loving peers. The group engages in discussions about issues
relevant to youth’s lives and communities. They plan social and
service projects throughout the year.
They also participate in youth conferences in area Unitarian
Universalist churches under the auspices of the Pacific Central
District of Unitarian Universalist Congregations and Young
Religious Unitarian Universalists of the Pacific (YRUU).
The youth group’s empowering philosophy educates youth
to be leaders within the group, church community and
denomination.
Youth Group Advisors: Rev. Geoff Rimositis, Rick Morris, Matt Trask
Grades K-1 Curriculum: Our Whole Lives Sexuality
Education
O
ur Whole Lives is based on the philosophy of
comprehensive sexuality education, which helps
Continued on next page
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 9
participants make informed and
responsible decisions about their
sexual health and behavior. It equips
participants with accurate, ageappropriate information in six subject
areas: human development, relationships,
personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual
health, and society and culture.
Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality,
comprehensive sexuality education
provides not only facts about anatomy
and human development, but also helps
participants to clarify their values, build
interpersonal skills, and understand the
spiritual, emotional, social, and political
aspects of sexuality as well. Classes will be
held January 5-May 4, 2015. l
Sustainable Harvest
International Event at
FUCSJ
Sunday, February 15, 12:45 pm,
Sanctuary
U
sing personal anecdotes from over
20 years of experience in Central
America, environmental activist Florence
Reed will speak about the global and
local impacts of unsustainable farming
practices in the tropics and how
Sustainable Harvest International’s
unique and successful model can
reverse this harmful trend. She will
show how this simple approach helps
alleviate poverty, improve health, reverse
deforestation, mitigate climate change,
and reduce pollution. l
Religious Education and Family Calendar
February, 2015
Sunday, February 1
3-5 year olds
1st -4th grades 5th-8th grades 9th-12th grades
Our Whole Lives (K-1) Maria’s Comet
Welcoming Superman
Atheism and Agnosticism: Not in Temples Made
with Hands
Group meets at regular time, 11:30-12:30
9:30-10:30 am
Sunday, February 8
3-5 year olds 1st -4th grades 5th-8th grades 9th-12th grades
Our Whole Lives (K-1) St. Valentine
Be Fair
Visit to Sunday Assembly, 11 am,
San José Woman’s Club
Group meets at regular time, 11:30-12:30
9:30-10:30 am
Sunday, February 15
3-5 year olds 1st -4th grades 5th-8th grades 9th-12th grades
Our Whole Lives (K-1) 8th-10th grades
In God’s Name
Finding Balance
Humanism — Just Us... and everything else
Group meets at regular time, 11:30-12:30
9:30-10:30 am
Coming of Age Mentor-Youth Meeting, 12:45-2 pm
February 13-16
Young Religious Unitarian Universalist of the Pacific (YRUUP)
Sunday, February 22
3-5 year olds 1st -4th grades 5th-8th grades 9th-12th grades
Our Whole Lives (K-1) Born with a Bang!
Keep Learning
Christianity I
Group meets at regular time, 11:30-12:30
9:30-10:30 am
First Unitarian Parents of Young Children
Support group for parents of young children meets in the church’s downstairs classroom the third Sunday of each month from
9:30-10:45 am. Child care is provided. Rev. Geoff Rimositis facilitates meetings. Parents volunteer to be monthly topic leaders.
UU Parents Meetup
T
he Meetup group is a safe venue for parents and children who embrace a Unitarian Universalist philosophy to connect.
The group was formed by parents in the First Unitarian Church of San José who wanted an easy way to get to know likeminded parents. The philosophy of the church, and the Unitarians of this group, is love. Parents belonging to this group have
many different lifestyles and beliefs, but we are united in our commitment to acceptance of each other and our children. Just go
to our Meetup site, http://www.meetup.com/UUParents/ and fill out a few profile questions, which are meant to verify you
are a parent with some interest in this group, and an organizer will approve you. For more information contact the Rev. Geoff
Rimositis, [email protected], or 408-292-3858, ext. 225.
Page 10 Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Weekly Meditation Group
Mondays, 6-7 pm, Sanctuary
W
e meditate starting at 6 pm for
30 minutes. We begin with the
ringing of the meditation bell and setting
the timer for 30 minutes. Come in the
door at end of the ramp and quietly enter
the sanctuary. You are welcome, no matter
what time you arrive, to sit in a chair or
on the labyrinth. You can bring a cushion
to meditate on.
You can leave after
the meditation but
all are welcome
to stay from 6:30
until 7:00 pm
for a check-in about our meditation
experience, practice and discussion of Rev.
Doug Kraft’s book, Buddha’s Map. The
discussion will be accessible to all! To be
put on the meditation group email list
contact meditation group convener, Rev.
Geoff Rimositis, GRimositis@Gmail.
com. l
UUthful Spirits
Second and fourth Sundays, 12:45
pm, Hattie Porter Hall
J
oin our young adult and young-atheart fellowship group for Sunday
Lunch! Meet in Hattie Porter Hall
nearish the Newcomer’s table about
12:45 pm. For information, contact
uuthful_spirits-owner@yahoogroups.
com. l
Christian Origins Book Study:
The First New Testament:
Marcion’s Scriptural Canon
Sunday, February 1, 1-3 pm,
Conference Room
O
n February 1 Bob Miess continues
our study of the book, The First
New Testament: Marcion’s Scriptural
Canon by Jason D. BeDuhn, about
Marcion, a second-century heretic, and
Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
his New Testament. Marcion was the
first known Christian to create a “bible,”
but his “bible” was different from what
we think of as “the” bible today. This
month we will discuss the second and
third part of Chapter 3 (pages 99-200),
Marcion’s Evangelion (the single Gospel
that was in his New Testament) and
BeDuhn’s detailed notes about how
BeDuhn reconstructed it. Since this is an
extensive and detailed scholarly section,
we will discuss only selected parts to get a
good idea of BeDuhn’s approach. Please
bring a Bible with the Gospel of Luke
for comparison – any translation will
do – or use one of our copies during the
session. Questions? Contact Bob Miess,
[email protected],
408-753-0541.
Huumanati Forum
Sunday, February 1, 9:45-11 am,
Hattie Porter Hall
V
ague thoughts, weird ideas,
speculations and what’s on your
mind. Join us for a general discussion
(or maybe a surprise presentation) at the
table nearest the coffee. l
Women’s Alliance
Thursday, February 5, 7:15-9:15 pm,
Conference Room
T
he members of the Women’s Alliance
are just beginning our reading of
President Jimmy Carter’s book, A Call to
Action: Women, Religion, Violence, and
Power, so it’s a great time to join us. On
Thursday, Feb. 5, from 7:15 to 9:15, we’ll
meet in the conference room to discuss
pages 1-51. If you have questions, contact
Nancy Coleman at nbcoleman@gmail.
com or 408 985 5778. All are welcome!
Dances of Universal Peace
Friday, February 6, 8 pm, Sanctuary
C
ome join us on the labyrinth under
the dome of our church. The Dances
of Universal Peace are a spiritual practice
honoring the inherent worth and dignity
of every human being, celebrating the
interconnected web of all existence, and
using sacred phrases from the world’s
religions. Beginners and experienced dancers
join together in these moving meditations.
The words of the sacred phrases, as well as
the melodies and the movements, are taught
each time. If you have questions you can
email Patrick Smiley at patrick.smiley@
sbcglobal.net or telephone and leave a
message at 650-596-8829. l
Healing Circle
Saturday, February 7, 10 am,
Ramsden Fireside Room
C
ome join our monthly healing
circle. Newcomers and drop-ins
welcome! We will engage in guided
discovery exercises to promote greater
well-being, drawing from healing energy
practices and Systemic Constellations
work. Suggested donation $10, or
free-will donations accepted as you are
comfortable. Individual hands-on healing
sessions are also available. For more
information or to sign up, please email
Amy Lorenzen at MsAmyLorenzen@
yahoo.com or call 650-847-0366. l
Social Justice Council
Monday, February 9, 7-9 pm,
Conference Room
T
he Social Justice Council meets on
2nd Mondays. You are invited to
attend. Please call or text John Burk at
408-259-3781. l
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 11
My Ministry to the World
Sunday, February 15, 1:00-3:00 pm,
Conference Room
H
ow would you like to see the world
transformed? Can you play a role
in making it happen? Are there ways you
can draw other people into your dream?
We have a program that supports people
in creating ministries beyond the walls of
our church and putting them into action.
In each meeting we explore our callings
and develop strategies for fulfilling them.
This month we will talk about what we
gained from the Community Ministry
Sunday (February 8), support each
person’s progress, and help one another
discover great ways to put our missions
into practice. Come and join kindred
spirits in discovering and deepening your
mission, asking questions, learning about
our program. Questions? Contact Bob
Miess, Bob@Heart-HealthyLifestyles.
com, 408-753-0541. l
HUUmanati Monday
Meeting
Cowspiracy: The
Sustainability Secret
Monday, February 16, 7:30-9:00 pm,
Library
Sunday, February 22, 12:45 pm,
Fireside Room
W
T
hat's on Your Mind? This is
a general get-together and
conversation about anything on your
mind. Join us. l
Circle Suppers
Saturday & Sunday, February 21 & 22,
RSVP (by February 8) for locations
C
ircle Suppers offer an opportunity
for members of the church
community to get to know one another
at casual pot luck suppers. Small groups
come together in members’ homes to
share food and conversation. Singles and
couples, long-time church members or
new to this church community, all are
welcome. Contact Barbara Derbyshire at
[email protected]. The deadline
to sign up is Sunday, February 8. l
The Alegría Singers
Wednesdays, 7-9 pm, Sanctuary
J
Guitars Aloud
oin the FUCSJ choir in singing at regular
Sunday services, at special events such as
Solstice Celebrations and Coffee Houses,
and bringing music to various church
activities. Come lift your voices with us! l
Thursdays, 7-8:15 pm, Sanctuary
Community Dance
G
uitarists! Let’s get together to play
UU hymns and other music suitable
for services. This group welcomes multiple
levels and will help you develop your
musicianship as you serve the church
and its ideals. Ages teen through adult.
Questions? Contact Ed Gardner, 408712-4157, [email protected], or Sally
Cooperrider, [email protected]
Page 12 1st and 3rd Sundays, 2:30-5 pm,
Hattie Porter Hall
G
reat exercise, great LIVE music, great
fun! All dances taught - beginners
welcome. For more information,
see bacds.org/series/community/
san_jose or facebook.com/groups/
SanJoseCommunityDance l
he Rights of Nature at FUCSJ shows
Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret.
“Cowspiracy is a groundbreaking featurelength environmental documentary (91
minutes) following intrepid filmmaker
Kip Andersen as he uncovers the most
destructive industry facing the planet
today – and investigates why the world’s
leading environmental organizations are
too afraid to talk about it.” l
Beth Hilton
T
he music and generous spirit of our
friend Beth Hilton will be sorely
missed. She died in her home early
Thursday morning, January 22. Planning
is underway for her Celebration of Life.
Beth offered her gifts of singing,
songwriting, and spectacular guitar
playing to our church and also the
Sunnyvale congregation. She created and
led our “guitar choir,” Guitars Aloud,
which continues to bring joy to us.
Beth had a brilliant mind and a
wonderful sense of humor, and was
fiercely independent. She cared well for
her dog, Tilly, even as her own health
failed, and chose a friend to continue to
care for Tilly.
“Thanks to every single one of you
who has held Beth in your mind and
heart, and offered gifts of service in her
last days,” says Rev. Nancy.
If you are able and willing to help
clear out Beth’s apartment in early
February, please contact Pastoral
Associates Alice Lynch or Carol Greene:
[email protected], seagreene1@
sbcglobal.net. l
Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
UU Hikers and Friends
Wednesday, February 4
Long Ridge Open Space, about 5 miles. This is
second time we have done this loop. Everyone
liked it so it is a keeper. We start at the Saratoga
gap trail head at the junction of Highway 9 and
Skyline then take the Achistaca Trail in Long Ridge
to the Skyline to the Sea Trail and finish the loop
taking the Saratoga Toll Rd trail back the parking
lot. Meet in Saratoga behind US Bank at 8:30 am.
Saturday, February 7
Almaden Quicksilver, McAbee entrance, 5 miles
mod. Meet at Bed, Bath and Beyond at Almaden
Plaza at 8:30 am
Wednesday, February 11
Huddart County Park, 6 miles, moderate. Meet at
PageMill/280 Park and Ride at 8:30 am We are
going to do our usual hike.
Saturday, February 14
Palo Alto/Mountain View Baylands, 5miles, flat.
Meet at trail head at the end of San Antonio Road
at 8:30. There is plenty of on-street parking.
Wednesday, February 18
Shuttle hike from Sunnyvale Mt trail head in
Sanborn to Indian Rock, 5 miles, moderate.
Although this hike is in Sanborn Park, we will be
doing a trail which is accessed from Skyline. There
can be a longer and more strenuous version if
folks want to do the Summit Rock loop. Meet at US
Bank parking lot in Saratoga at 8:30 am.
Saturday, February 21
Alum Rock Park, 6 miles, moderate. We will do the
south rim. Meet at VTA park and ride on Capitol at
Alum Rock at 8:30 am
Wednesday, February 25
Montebello Open Space, 5 miles, moderate. We did
this new hike in November and everyone enjoyed
it. It eliminated some of the steeper climbs, but
kept the best parts. Meet at PageMill/280 Park
and Ride at 8:30 am. l
Remember to bring your recyclable
bottles and cans to help cover
expenses of this newsletter!
Our Church Circular • February 2015 • febrero 2015
The all-new all-different Circling Around
it
n
o
mu I want to be up to date with you, so here’s what we need: birthdays
le
Mi lives Com (especially those with zeros), parties of any kind, promotions, college
the ian destinations, anything that you diverse groups are doing is interesting to
in itar
Un everyone else. “Tell Me Everything” when you see me at church, or e-mail me at
st [email protected].
r
i
F
CIRCLIN
Please call or email me if you plan to hike: Home
phone 408-730-1052 or cell 408-769-0534;
[email protected].
—Joyce Miller
ARsOUND
y
G stone f the
by Torchy
Hunter
A Tale of Two Circles...
L
ong, long ago there was an attempt to make stronger bonds between members of
the congregation by having them eat together. This was called “Circle of 8”, because
there were eight..... well, you get it. The idea was that each couple would host the other
three for dinner once a month, rotating through all four couples.
Our group, consisting of Vic and Pam Wyman, Madeline and Tim Blackwood,,
Barbara and Dana Grover and Dan Zulevic and I sat around at the fourth dinner
discussing how much fun we'd had and wouldn't it be a shame to not see each other
this way again.
Being Unitarians, there was a universal opposition to following the rules, so we
decided we'd just go right ahead and have dinner with each other as long as we wanted
to. So there.
That was 14 years ago, and we have had dinner monthly that long, missing only
when people were out of the country. Or had family ill, or getting married or giving
birth. Personal debilitation is roundly hooted down, except for Tim, who had us all
beat at having physical problems. But we've showed up within days of having joints
replaced, root canals, spinal pains, bronchial disturbances, vision impairments. And we
firmly forbid organ recitals, unless we can actually look at them.
We've had amazing food and virtually alive food, like the time Vic made a paella
and I couldn't even look at the octopi trying to escape the dish. One night we decided
that we ought to set up a Last Man Bottle: like in the movies when the bottle is to be
drunk by the last survivor of a group. But we are such an opinionated group that we
could not settle on only ONE kind of bottle, so I think we've left it that the last man
goes down to BevMo, by ambulance probably, and buys his own.
When I became a vegetarian, I got to sit by and watch lovely stews, barbequed
chicken, salmon, and many other kinds of flesh of animals, while these, my dearest
friends, said "more bread, Torchy?"
This was gradually abandoned to be replaced by Circle Suppers, wherein if you call
Barbara Derbyshire soon enough, she will assign you a host and a food to bring. This
month Barbara assigned us to Ben Crow and we were to bring the entree. Luckily he
lives virtually down the street from us, and we were heartened to enter his house to see
a huge Sousaphone in the corner of his living room. I did not really know Ben, but I
perked up considerably at seeing that.
Dan wants me to tell all of you that this instrument is also mistakenly called a
tuba. Sticklers. Sticklers. Further happiness occurred when Ernesto came up to greet
us. Small black Chihuahua. Turns out Henry Ruddle is staying with Ben right now,
complete with piano. Julia Rodriguez, absurdly overdoing the appetizers assignment,
showed up with pecan stuffed dates, and I swear I saw Melanie Lanstrom putting the
last of them in her purse. They were that good. Mike Spesock hastened to the fridge
to thaw his decadent frozen chocolate ganache cake, which took him all day to make.
We brought our go-to entree, butternut squash with black beans, onions and four
times more spicing than the recipe calls for.
And a good time was had by all!
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 13
FIRST UNITARIAN CHURCH of San José
160 North Third Street
San José, CA 95112
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Suggested donation: $18-$20 per year – please mail to Office Manager –
or bring returnable bottles/cans for us to recycle!
For Pastoral Care
Our community strives to offer compassion, companionship, healing, and joy to all its members.
Our pastoral care coordinators can help you find the listening ear or helping hands that you
may need in difficult times. Please contact the Rev. Geoff Rimositis.
Contacting the Ministers
Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones and Rev. Geoff Rimositis feel honored to serve this congregation,
and we cherish your trust! Here is how to reach us: Nancy (408) 292-3858, ext. 223
Mon.-Thurs.; cell (408) 952-9418; e-mail: [email protected]. Geoff: (408) 2923858, ext. 225 Mon.-Thurs.; cell (408) 309-7796; e-mail: [email protected].
Cuidado Pastoral
Nuestra comunidad se esfuerza en ofrecer la compasión, el compañerismo curativo, y la alegría a
todos sus miembros. Nuestros coordinadores en cuidado pastoral pueden ayudarle a encontrar
un oído que escucha, o las manos que ayudan cuando ustedes lo pudieran necesitar en épocas
difíciles. Para el cuidado pastoral, por favor, comuníquese con el Rev. Geoff Rimositis.
Contactando a los Ministros
La Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones y El Rev. Geoff Rimositis se sienten honrados de servir a esta
congregación y apreciamos su confianza! Aquí esta como puede contactarnos: Nancy
(408) 292-3858, ext. 223 de Lunes a Jueves; cell (408) 952-9418; e-mail: revnpj@yahoo.
com. Geoff: (408) 292-3858, ext. 225 de Lunes a Jueves; cell (408) 309-7796; e-mail:
[email protected]
READY TO BECOME A NEW MEMBER OF THE FIRST UNITARIAN CHURCH OF SAN JOSÉ?
Contact Rev. Geoff, [email protected]
NEWSLETTER STAFF
Editorial Team:
Sherry Howd, Mina Kelly,
Catherine Leeson Pelizzari,
Shirley Worth
[email protected]
Our Church Circular is published on
the last Wednesday of each month.
Circulation is about 500.
Translator: Roberto Padilla
Assembly Coordinators: Andrea Dinolt,
Rebecca Mason
Thanks for all the work you do and
care you put into the newsletter.
CHURCH OFFICE
HOURS: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9 am - 4
pm.
Phone: (408) 292-3858 (plus staff extensions)
Fax: (408) 292-4744; [email protected]
Website: http://www.sanjoseuu.org
Rentals: (408) 841-7542 or [email protected]
CHURCH STAFF
SENIOR MINISTER,
The Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones, Ext. 223,
[email protected]
ASSOCIATE MINISTER FOR FAMILY MINISTRIES
The Rev. Geoff Rimositis,
Ext. 225, [email protected]
OFFICERS
CHOIR DIRECTOR, John Ector,
[email protected]
PRESIDENT Madeline Morrow,
[email protected]
OFFICE MANAGER, Dana Spinney,
Ext. 221, [email protected]
SECRETARY Nancy Coleman,
[email protected]
BOOKKEEPER Sue Evanicky,
Ext. 227 [email protected]
TREASURER Bill Shepard, [email protected]
CUSTODIAN Edgar Cruz
PERSONNEL OFFICER Sally Cooperrider
[email protected]
NURSERY Danni Fernandez, Kimberly Fernandez
PROGRAM OFFICER Francisco Hernandez,
[email protected]
FINANCIAL OFFICER Dena Dickinson,
[email protected]
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Frank Bosche, [email protected]
PROGRAM & OPERATIONS
COUNCIL (POC)
John Burk, Greg Smith, Social Justice,
[email protected]
[email protected]
(open), Outreach
(open), Building,
Diana Wirt, Stewardship and Fundraising,
[email protected]
(open), Inreach
(open), Religious Education and Family
Ministries
Roberto Padilla, [email protected]
Marnie Singer, [email protected]
Rob Strong, [email protected]