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Our Church Circular
First Unitarian Church of San José * April 2015 * Abril 2015
160 N. Third Street, San José, CA 95112 * (408) 292-3858 * sanjoseuu.org
“Say, Rev. Nancy, How’s ThatBook
BookComing
ComingAlong?”
Along?”
A Story of Transformation inProgress
Progress
by the Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones
In September, I announced to you—with joy and a tremor of
terror—that my co-author Karin Lin and I had signed a two-year
contract with Skinner House Books (one of Unitarian Universalism’s
presses). After months spent drafting our proposal, we had a few
moments to savor those signatures and celebrate our official go-ahead.
Then we gulped and plunged into the actual work of researching,
writing, and producing the book.
The Joy of the Journey: Unitarian Universalist Congregations on the
Road to Multiculturalism is the working title that will surely change.
Here at First Unitarian we know that the journey to living out our faith
in multicultural, antiracist, antioppressive ways is joyful at times and
also difficult, frustrating, and long. Yet even with the stumbles and
detours, the confusion and discouragement, progress on this path is
necessary, rewarding, and profoundly spiritual. It is truly a “journey
toward wholeness” in body, mind, heart, and spirit for individuals and
community alike.
As Karin and I build our own multicultural relationship
and connect with other Unitarian Universalists on
the journey, we find ourselves in the midst of many
“transformations and rebirths.” I long to share more
of our discoveries with you.
Progress on the Book
Through the last six months, Karin and I have talked
weekly (she lives in Cambridge, Mass.), reviewed the
current literature on our topic, interviewed teams
from congregations we will feature in the book, refined
our vision, revised our table of contents, drafted
many paragraphs, designed a requested pamphlet that
congregations can put in their entryways, and planned our first site
visits to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis (UUCA) and
to the Leading Edge Conference in New York City later in April. We
have heard powerful personal testimonies and gathered a list of core
principles. Here’s just a sample
Testimonies.
• Karin Lin, lay leader at First Parish, Cambridge: “What would I
have wanted to know when I first began this work of building a
multicultural Unitarian Universalist community? That the journey is
going to be 10,000 times longer than I thought it would be. And
the resistance is going to be hurtful and heartbreaking, but it’s also
going to change me more than anything else in my life.”
• Fred Muir, senior minister at UUCA: “I really do think that our
congregations becoming multicultural is an issue of whether
Unitarian Universalism will make it into the next century, or even
complete this century. It’s a faith I love, [and it] has to begin to
change and evolve as the country is evolving.” He reminds us that it
took about 300 years to get our congregations to be the way they
are now, so he urges us to stick with it for the long haul. “It will take
more than a three- to five-year strategic plan to redirect us,” Fred
says.
• John Crestwell, associate minister at UUCA: Ministers must have
a fierce commitment to this work, John advises. After all, “it’s my
responsibility to take people to task when they are not living up to
Unitarian Universalist values,” he says. He finds hope in the diversity
of the ministry team leading UUCA now: an older white minister
(Fred), an African-American man (John), and a young-adult white
woman (Christina Leone Tracy). “Hope is in who is
on the chancel leading worship—that’s progress,
that’s hope.”
John’s words echo one of the core principles we are
discovering. (You can read a sample of those core
principles elsewhere in this newsletter). Fred’s words
do, too: “Keep your eyes on the prize knowing that
there will be detours, stops and starts, frustrations,
and disappointments, as well as times of joy and
celebrating. It helps to meditate, pray, sing, and look
onward to the next milestone.”
As I work on this book, I feel ever closer to you, Beloved Community, and
ever more committed to the long and winding road toward multicultural
community that you launched at First Unitarian decades ago and
along which we continue to move. Please join us on this journey of
“transformation and rebirth,” as we sing and meditate and celebrate our
way forward this month!
With fierce commitment and abiding love,
Rev. Nancy
For a list of the Core Principals of Multiicultural Worship, see page 8.
April Theme: Transformation and Rebirth
Thema de abril: Transformación y Renacimiento
“Dime. Rev. Nancy, ¿Cómo Es ese Libro que Viene?”
Una Historia de Transformación en Progreso
por la Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones y tranucido por Roberto Padilla
En septembre, les anuncié—con mucha alegría y un temblor de
terror—que mi coautora Karin Lin y yo habíamos firmado un contrato
de dos años con Skinner House Books (uno de los Medios Informativos
del Unitario Universalismo). Después de meses elaborando nuestra
propuesta, tuvimos unos momentos para saborear esas firmas y
celebrar nuestra autorización oficial. Entonces sorprendidas y sumidas
en el trabajo de investigación, escribir y producir el libro.
La alegría de la jornada: Congregaciones Unitarias Universalistas en el
camino al multiculturalismo es el título que seguramente va a cambiar.
Aquí en la Primera Iglesia Unitaria sabemos que el viaje para vivir
nuestra fe en maneras multiculturales, antirracistas, anti opresivas es
alegre a veces y también difícil, frustrante y larga. Sin embargo, aun
con los tropiezos y desvíos, la confusión y el desaliento, el progreso
en este camino es necesario, gratificante y profundamente espiritual.
Es realmente un “viaje hacia la totalidad” en cuerpo,
mente, corazón y espíritu para los individuos y la
comunidad.
Mientras Karin y yo construimos nuestra propia
relación multicultural y nos conectamos con otros
Unitarios Universalistas en el viaje, nos encontramos
en medio de muchas “transformaciones y
renacimientos”. Anhelo compartir más de nuestros
descubrimientos con ustedes.
Avances en el libro
A través de los últimos seis meses, Karin y yo hemos
hablado semanalmente (ella vive en Cambridge,
Massachusetts), revisando la literatura actual sobre nuestro tema,
entrevistando a los equipos de las congregaciones que presentaremos
en el libro, refinando nuestra visión, revisando nuestra tabla de
contenidos, redactando muchos párrafos, diseñando un folleto
solicitado que las congregaciones pueden poner en sus entradas y
planeando nuestras primeras visitas a la Iglesia Unitaria Universalista
de Annapolis (UUCA) y a la Conferencia de Vanguardia en Nueva York
a finales de abril. Hemos escuchado testimonios personales de gran
alcance y reunido una lista de principios fundamentales. Esto es sólo
una muestra:
Testimonios
• Karin Lin, líder laico en la primera parroquia, Cambridge: “¿Qué
hubiera querido saber cuándo yo primero comencé este trabajo de
construir una comunidad Unitaria Universalista multicultural? Como
el viaje va a ser 10.000 veces más largo de lo que pensé que sería.
Y la resistencia va a ser dolorosa y desgarradora, pero también va
a cambiarme más que a nadie en mi vida.”
Page 2 • Fred Muir, Ministro Decano de UUCA: “Yo creo de verdad que el
que nuestras congregaciones llegaran a ser multiculturales es
una cuestión de si el Unitario Universalismo será en el próximo
siglo, o incluso terminar este siglo. Es una fe que amo, [y]
tiene que comenzar a cambiar y evolucionar como el país está
evolucionando.” Él nos recuerda que tomó cerca de 300 años para
que nuestras congregaciones llegaran a ser como son ahora, así
que él nos insta a adherirnos al largo viaje. “Les tomará un plan
estratégico de más de tres a cinco años para redirigirnos”, dice
Fred.
• John Crestwell, Ministro Asociado a UUCA: Los ministros deben
tener un compromiso feroz en este trabajo, aconseja John.
Después de todo, “es mi responsabilidad para llevar a la gente a
la tarea cuando ellos no están viviendo con los valores Unitarios
Universalistas”, dice. Él encuentra esperanza en la diversidad del
equipo del ministerio que dirige la UUCA ahora:
un viejo ministro blanco (Fred), un hombre
afroamericano (John) y una joven mujer blanca
(Christina Leona Tracy). “la esperanza está
en quien está en el presbiterio dirigiendo el
servicio— eso es progreso, eso es esperanza.”
Las palabras de John hacen eco de uno de
los principios fundamentales que estamos
descubriendo. (Usted puede leer una muestra de
esos principios fundamentales en otras partes
de este boletín). Las palabras de Fred lo hacen,
también: “Mantengan sus ojos en el premio, sabiendo que habrá
desvíos, pradas y comienzos, frustraciones y decepciones, así como
momentos de alegría y celebración. Ayuda meditar, rezar, cantar y
mirar hacia adelante para el próximo hito.”!
Mientras trabajo en este libro, me siento cada vez más cercana a
ustedes, Amada Comunidad, y cada vez más comprometida con el
largo y sinuoso camino hacia la comunidad multicultural que ustedes
iniciaron en la Primera Iglesia Unitaria hace décadas y con el cual
nos seguimos moviendo. Por favor acompáñenos en este viaje de
“transformación y renacimiento,” mientras cantamos y meditamos y
celebramos nuestro camino hacia adelante este mes.
Con fuerte compromiso y amor,
Rev. Nancy
Por una lista de principios básicos para las congregaciones
multiculturale, vea la pagina 8.
Our Church Circular • April 2015 • abril 2015
150 Years of Transformational History
150 Años de Historia Transformacional
by/por Rev. Geoff Rimositis y traducito por Roberto Padilla
“Please take notice that I am not here trying to vindicate Unitarians or Unitarianism,
much less to attack others. The joy of this free position is that it takes away the
sectarian motive for being unfair or prejudiced towards those with whom we may
disagree; that it favors the widest fellowship; that it makes it easy to honor credit
and merit in men [and women] of all creeds, and to rejoice in the good that may be
accomplished by any church as well as to hold our own church subject to criticism
and open to improvement; that it favors our learning alike from radical modern
theories, from conservative scholars, and from wise and thoughtful men [and
women] of all religions and ages. This seems to me the ideal attitude of Christian
discipleship. Without expecting perfection, we may yet hope to keep open the path
which leads to it; and that method is best which is most free from obstruction.
The passion for perfection which includes the love of truth and the hunger after
righteousness must have free course in mind and heart. Then one may find his [or
her] church home where the regimen and diet agree with
his [or her] constitution.”
l From “Charles Gordon Ames-A Spiritual
Autobiography” edited by his daughter Alice Ames
Winter, published in 1913
Por favor tome nota que no estoy tratando aquí de reivindicar a los
Unitarios o al Unitarismo, mucho menos para atacar a otros. La
alegría de esta posición libre es que quita el motivo sectario por ser
injusto o prejuicioso hacia aquellos con quienes podemos estar en
desacuerdo; que favorece a la feligresía más amplia; que hace fácil
respetar y dar el mérito a hombres [y mujeres] de todos los credos
y regocijarse en el bien que puede ser logrado por cualquier iglesia,
así como para mantener nuestra propia iglesia objeto de crítica y
abierta a la mejora; que favorece nuestro aprendizaje por igual de
modernas teorías radicales, de eruditos conservadores y de hombres
sabios y pensativos [y mujeres] de todas las religiones y edades.
Esto me parece la actitud ideal del discípulo cristiano. Sin esperar la
perfección, nosotros podemos aun esperar mantener abierto el camino
que nos conduce; y ese método es mejor porque está más libre de
obstrucciónes. La pasión por la perfección que incluye el amor de
la verdad y el hambre de justicia debe tener libre curso en la
mente y el corazón. Entonces uno puede encontrar su propia
iglesia hogar donde el régimen y la dieta de acuerdo con su
Constitución.”
De “Charles Gordon Ames-Una Autobiografía Espiritual” editado por
su hija Alice Ames Winter y publicado en 1913
I never thought I would prefer an electronic notebook
to the feel of a book in the palm of my hands. Yet, it
is now what I prefer. The fact that I can adjust the font
Charles Gordon Ames
for these aging eyes, the well-lit screen and instant
definitions when words are highlighted has won me
over. There is one exception: old books. I have a few;
mostly inherited from my father like a first edition of Tom Sawyer (I should have
it appraised!). And before me on my desk is the Spiritual Autobiography of
our first minister, Charles Gordon Ames. To me it is a holy book; not because
it is scripture but because it takes me back to the beginnings of this religious
community that for 150 years has been in the business of transformation. What
a parade of witnesses has passed in and out of our church doors; bringing
their joys and clinging to their sorrows: babies and elders, veterans of war, and
brides to be. Can you imagine all the music and singing and raucous laughter
that raised the roof for over a century? Thank God we have a dome!?
A sacred honor has been bestowed upon us to carry forth this theology of
transformation that is at the heart and soul of our faith. Reverend Ames called
it the “passion for perfection.” We now call it “making love visible” in all that we
say and do as evidenced by our work for justice.
We don’t often focus on our history since there are so many things that demand
our attention here in the present. We have always been a forward moving and
thinking people working for the common good, using our passion and creativity
for the benefit of all. It is good to remind ourselves of the spiritual stock we have
come from. We can still agree with Reverend Ames, that “the love of truth and the
hunger after righteousness must have free course in mind and heart.”
Ours is a living tradition, ever evolving to the needs of our time and to new truths
revealed to open and inquiring minds. I can’t wait to see what the next 150 years
will bring. You can find us making history wherever the need is greatest.
Yo nunca pensé que preferiría un aparato electrónico que el
sentir un libro en la palma de mi mano. Sin embargo, ahora es
lo que prefiero. El hecho de que puedo ajustar el tamaño de
la letra para estos ojos envejecidos, la pantalla iluminada y las
definiciones instantáneas cuando se destacan las palabras, me han
conquistado. Hay una excepción: los libros antiguos. Tengo unos
cuantos; en su mayoría heredados de mi padre, como una primera
edición de Tom Sawyer (¡debería haber valorado!). Y ante mí, en mi
escritorio esta la Autobiografía Espiritual de nuestro primer ministro,
Charles Gordon Ames. Para mí es un libro sagrado; No porque sea una
escritura, sino porque me hace recordar los inicios de esta comunidad
religiosa que desde hace 150 años ha estado en el asunto de la
transformación. Que desfile de testigos han pasado dentro y fuera
de las puertas de nuestra iglesia; trayendo sus alegrías y aferrándose
a sus penas: los bebés y los ancianos, los veteranos de guerra y las
novias. ¿Se imaginan toda la música y canciones y risas estridentes
que se elevaron al techo por una centuria? Gracias Dios nosotros
tenemos un domo!?!
Un honor sagrado nos ha sido otorgado a nosotros para llevar adelante
esta teología de la transformación que está en el corazón y el alma de
nuestra fe. El Reverendo Ames la llamó la “pasión por la perfección”.
Ahora nosotros lo llamamos “hacer el amor visible” en todo lo que decimos
y hacemos según lo evidenciado por nuestro trabajo por la justicia.
A menudo no nos enfocamos en nuestra historia ya que hay muchas
cosas que demandan nuestra atención en el presente. Siempre
hemos sido un movimiento hacia adelante y pensando que la gente
trabaja para el bien común, utilizando nuestra pasión y creatividad
en beneficio de todos. Es bueno recordarnos a nosotros mismos del
linaje espiritual que tenemos de dónde venimos. Todavía estamos
de acuerdo con el reverendo Ames, que “el amor de la verdad y el
hambre de justicia debe tener libre curso en la mente y el corazón”.
La nuestra es una tradición viva, evolucionando cada vez a las necesidades
de nuestro tiempo y a las nuevas verdades reveladas para mentes abiertas e
inquisitivas. No puedo esperar a ver lo que traerán los próximos 150 años. Ustedes
pueden encontrarnos haciendo historia donde quiera que la necesidad sea mayor.
Our Church Circular • April 2015 • abril 2015
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 3
In Our Own Voices:
Transformation and
Rebirth
“In Our Own Voices” shares congregants’ free-flowing
responses to our theme. We draw these responses from
on-line surveys completed last fall.
Many respondents note how April’s theme—Transformation
and Rebirth—flows naturally from March’s theme of
Brokenness. A faith in second chances resounds through
these voices. “We come together in spiritual communities to
experience and recognize transformation and celebrate it,”
one congregant writes.
Others reflect on how transformation—change itself—is
constant, from the molecular to the global levels and
beyond. How, then, do we handle change? Does the
possibility for new life exist even in the midst of painful
losses? Can we make our peace with change, and if so, how
does such acceptance change us?
A few respondents dislike the theme. “This theme for spring
has been done [three years ago]—time for something
else,” one writes. Others associate the theme with Christian
doctrine that has wounded them. I wonder: in the freedom
of our Unitarian Universalist faith, can we open ourselves
to fresh approaches to these ancient themes, discover the
common questions at their root, and search for our truths
in response? How can we best support each other in our
spiritual growth?
You will find rich thoughts and feelings in the responses
shared here, as well as in worship and Small Group Ministry
this month. I look forward to sharing the journey with you!
Rev. Nancy
“Yay for Spring!”
• Spring! The world is reborn! Yay for spring!
• How fortunate we are to be able to begin
again. The Earth fosters rebirth every
spring, as well as following natural disasters.
People go through transformations
throughout their lives. I have been through
several myself, each time not knowing that
there were still more to come.
• I have been contemplating what it means to
think of myself as “under construction.”
From Brokenness to Transformation
• This theme follows Brokenness well.
What choices or attitudes contribute
to transformation and rebirth? Does it
happen within each heart, or is there a
communal or interpersonal aspect of
it as well? What can we do as a church
community to foster transformation for
ourselves and each other?
• After thinking of the futility of healing
Brokenness, I need a fresh start to
remember that even though Transformation
and Rebirth are only temporary,
experiencing transformation is what keeps
Page 4 us going. We come together in spiritual
communities to experience and recognize
transformation and celebrate it. Without
that, I might fall into the Sloughs of
Despond.
• We must learn to rise repeatedly from
episodes of brokenness, like the Phoenix,
like Christ. We carry scars, but do not let
them run our lives.
• I have seen a little bit of transformation
and rebirth in myself and others in 12-step
recovery and therapy.
• Opening to new possibilities in one’s life when
other doors have slammed shut. Just because
there is an ending (a divorce, a death, etc.)
doesn’t mean that a new beginning can’t
emerge out of it. Learning from mistakes—
failure is often the best teacher.
Active Agents of Transformation
• How can we be active agents of
transformation and rebirth for ourselves
and society? Where should we put our best
energy to get the most productive results
to make a difference for the health of our
planet and its inhabitants? Every day is
a rebirth when my eyes open to see the
day’s light. Every day is full of possibilities
if I can stay open, present, and attentive
to the world I encounter. Everyone needs
a cause to champion. It can be the growth
and development of our children. It can be
homes for people who are homeless. Each
of us needs to identify what is our action
or path of transformation and rebirth. This
is what is going to make the difference in
creating the world where all can thrive.
• Transformation and Rebirth mean glowing
and shining in our professions!
• How can our country and our environment
be transformed and reborn in a healthy
way when many on the political right scoff
at global climate change and care only
about short-term profits? And in California,
where farmers drill deeply into the
aquafers and use as much water wastefully
as they want, endangering our whole state?
• Transformation is or should be a
continuous process. It is useful to find an
inspiration or a source that helps get you
unstuck when life gets bogged down in
a “sameness” that is not self-serving or
serving anybody else. Although I strive for
balance and a place of Zen, and I like how
it feels to be totally relaxed (like you are
on vacation), I realize that complacency
stops me from feeling alive. Not having
a purpose that makes a difference in
people’s lives means I am just existing and
not contributing.
Change Is Constant
• From a Jungian perspective, each of
us individually, our group, our city, our
economy, and our world are constantly
being transformed and reborn, not without
fear and pain.
• The idea that we are always becoming
someone new, and that nobody is ever
the same person when we meet them
again (this is physically true on the human
biological and molecular level as well).
• Do we change over time? Yes. I just read
Depak Chopra’s book Buddha, and by the
end there are some very philosophical
statements about how change is—I mean,
change IS. For example (I’m paraphrasing):
We walk through the forest and it’s never
the same each time. Even if we go the
same day, everything has changed: leaves
have dropped, plants have grown; even the
very dirt (non-living) is changed. Molecules
have been added to the dirt, and the clod
is in a different state of compost, etc. On
that order of things, how could anything
stay the same for us? It’s not bad, it’s just
that change is always there.
Religious Sources and Questions
• Transformation, rebirth, resurrection are
major themes in world religions and in
much of world literature. As creatures
in time we are fundamentally subject to
change, which means that we are constantly
transforming whether we want to or not. We
can bewail the constant changes or treat
them as an opportunity. Rebirth would be
when change is treated as an opportunity
to try something new (usually to stop doing
something that feels self-destructive). I’m
not sure how well Unitarian Universalism
promotes this thought.
• Transformation and rebirth: I am
uncomfortable with the supernatural
connotations. We are born, we live, we die.
If we do those three things wholeheartedly,
it’s a good run.
• The Death card in the Tarot is not one of
finality but of rebirth. Life with the Buddhist
belief of Samsara is cyclical rather than
final until we can all attain Buddhahood.
• How do faith communities speak about
birth, transitions, rebirth/reincarnation? If
energy is neither created nor destroyed,
what happens to our essence (spirit, sense
mind, electrical impulses of the brain)?
continued on page 6
Our Church Circular • April 2015• abril 2015
SUNDAY SERVICES / SERVICIOS DE DOMINGO
10:15 am
Todos los domingos – Alabanzas en español
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.
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
uApril 2, Thursday, 7:15-9:15 pm, Women’s Alliance, Conference Room
uApril 3, Friday, 8 pm, Dances of Universal Peace, Sanctuary
u April 10, Friday, 7:30 pm (Ramsden Fireside Room) and April 12, Sunday,
2:15 pm (Conference Room), auditions for our next FUCSJ Mystery Musical
Comedy Dinner Fundraiser (see page 11)
uApril 13, Monday, 7 pm, Social Justice Council Meeting, Conference Room
u April 18 & 19, Saturday & Sunday, Circle Suppers. Contact Barbara at
[email protected]. RSVP deadline is April 6.
uApril 19, Sunday,, 1-3 pm, My Ministry to the World, Board Conference Room
uApril 19, Sunday, 12:45-2:00 pm, Rights of Nature Group, Ramsden Fireside
Room
uApril 19, Sunday, 2:30-4:30 pm, Community Dance, Hattie Porter Hall
uApril 20, Monday, 7:30-9 pm, HUUmanati Monthly Meeting, Church Library
uApril 25, Saturday, District Assembly, First UU Society of San Francisco. For
more information, see [email protected]
uMay 3, Sunday, 1 pm, Book Study Group, Conference Room
u May 16 & 17 Saturday and Sunday, Circle Suppers. Contact Barbara at
[email protected]
u May 16, Sunday, 10 am - 2 pm, Blood Drive, at the church
uJuly 11, Wednesday , 10 am - 3 pm, Storytelling Worskshop with Olga Loya, at
the church; also July 18, Saturday 10 am - 2 pm (at church) and Sunday, July
19, during service, Storytelling Workshop with Olga Loya
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]
Our Church Circular • April 2015• abril 2015
11:00 am
April Theme: Transformation and Rebirth /Tema de abril:
Transformación y Renacimiento
April 5 – 5 de Abril
EASTER SUNDAY, with our annual FLOWER COMMUNION!
Celebration Sunday: All-Ages Worship
Come, bring a flower (no thorns, please!) to the tables outside the church
before worship on Easter Sunday for our Flower Communion. Invite all the
children you know to take part in the Parade of Flowers that opens worship, and ask them to help pass the baskets during our annual ritual. We
lift our spirits with a Passover song from the choir, a story about kind St.
Francis, the patron saint of ecology, and familiar Easter songs with inclusive
Unitarian Universalist words. As we ponder the possibilities for rebirth and
second chances this month, we ask: How can we become active agents of
transformation?
Enjoy a visit from our Floppy-Eared Friend, and the annual Easter egg hunt
in St. James Park after worship!
Worship Leaders: the Rev . Nancy Palmer Jones and the Rev. Geoff
Rimositis; Worship Associates: Jeff and Marta Norment
¡DOMINGO DE PASCUA, con nuestra anual COMUNION DE LAS
FLORES!
Domingo de Celebración: Servicio para Todas las Edades
Vengan, traigan una flor (¡sin espinas, por favor!) para las mesas que están
afuera de la iglesia antes del servicio del domingo de Pascua para nuestra
comunión de las flores. Inviten a todos los niños que conozcan para participar
en el Desfile de las Flores que abre el servicio y pedirles que ayuden a pasar
las canastas durante nuestro ritual anual. Elevamos nuestros espíritus con
una canción de Pascua por el coro, una historia sobre San Francisco, el santo
patrón de la ecología y canciones familiares de Pascua con palabras Unitarias
Universalistas inclusivas. Reflexionamos sobre las posibilidades del renacer y
segundas oportunidades este mes, preguntamos: ¿Cómo nos convertimos en
agentes activos de transformación?
¡Disfruten de la visita de nuestro amigo de Orejas-Caidas y la caza anual de
huevos de Pascua en el Parque St James después del servicio!
Dirigen: la Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones y el Rev. Geoff Rimositis;
Associados de Culto: Jeff y Marta Norment
April 12 – 12 de abril
Long-Haul People: Commitment, Rebirth, and Reinvention:
Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Calling Our Senior Minister
The members and friends of the First Unitarian Church of San Jose
are “long-haul people.” From someone’s first visit through decades of
engagement, we commit to taking a spiritual journey together. This Sunday
we celebrate the rebirths and reinventions we encourage in ourselves
and each other over time. In honor of First Unitarian’s history of engaging
for the long haul with each other and with its ministers, we celebrate the
10th anniversary of the congregational vote to call Rev. Nancy as FUCSJ’s
senior minister. Rev. Nancy reflects on the “transformations and rebirth”
this call has brought, and the choir backs her up on a much-loved song—
which we’ll all sing before worship is done!
Worship Leaders: the Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones, the Rev. Geoff
Rimositis, and Nikira Hernandez; Worship Associate: Amy
Lorenzen
continued on next page
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 5
Services / Servicios
continued from previous page
El largo Viaje de las Personas: Compromiso,
Renacimiento y Reinvención:
Celebrando el Décimo Aniversario del
llamado de Nuestra Ministra Decana
Los miembros y amigos de la Primera Iglesia
Unitaria de San José son “gente de largo viaje”.
Desde la primera visita a través de décadas
de compromiso, nos comprometemos a
realizar un viaje espiritual juntos. Este domingo
celebramos los renacimientos y reinvenciones
que fomentamos en nosotros mismos y en los
demás con el tiempo.
En honor a la historia de la Primera Iglesia
Unitaria de comprometerse a largo plazo con
los demás y con sus ministros, celebramos
el décimo aniversario de la votación
congregacional para llamar a la Rev. Nancy
como Ministra Decana de FUCSJ. La Rev. Nancy
reflexiona sobre “las transformaciones y el
renacimiento” que este llamado ha traído, y el
coro regresa para una canción muy querida —
¡la que cantaremos todos antes del servicio!
Dirigen: la Rev. Nancy Palmer Joses, el Rev.
Geoff Rimositis y Nikira Hernandez;
Asociada de Culto: Amy Lorenzen
en cada vez más inhabitable. La necesidad de
cuidar mejor a la tierra y de todos sus habitantes,
nunca ha sido mayor, mientras experimentamos
el cambio climático mundial. Esperamos pueda
ser encontrado en el creciente movimiento de
justicia climática.
Únete a ministro invitado, El Rev. Earl Koteen del
Ministerio Unitario Universalista de la tierra, con
nuestro Grupo de Derechos de la Naturaleza
en la búsqueda de las pasiones de reverencia
y compromiso.
Dirigen: el Rev. Earl Koteen y Nikira
Hernandez
April 26 - 26 de abril
Understanding Unitarianism: Its Eastern
European Homeland
Annual Balázs Scholar Visit!
This spring’s Balázs Scholar, the scholarminister Rev. Dr. Sandor Kovács, brings his
in-depth study of the history of Unitarianism
in Eastern Europe (Hungary and Romania) to
our sanctuary this Sunday. Fluent in English, Dr.
Kovács bridges the borders between Eastern
European and Western Unitarianism, and
helps us connect with our kin in Transylvania
who kept our faith alive through centuries
of hardship. Please bring your generosity
(and checkbooks, if possible), as our Special
Collection goes to our Partner Church program.
We will send 33 pilgrim-ambassadors to visit
our Partner Church this July!
Worship Leader: the Rev. Dr. Sandor
Kovács; Worship Associate: Frank
Bosche
Abril 19 – 19 de abril
Earth Day Sunday: Our Earth Needs Our
Love
It has been forty-five years since the first Earth
Day, and our planet is becoming increasingly
uninhabitable. The need to take better care of
the Earth and all its inhabitants has never been
greater as we experience world-wide climate
change. Hope can be found in the growing climate
justice movement. Join our special guest minister
Rev. Earl Koteen of the Unitarian Universalist
Ministry for Earth, with our Rights of Nature
Group in finding the passions of reverence and
engagement.
Worship Leaders: the Rev. Earl Koteen
and Nikira Hernandez
Sabado de la Tierra: Nuestra Tierra
Necesita Nuestro Amor
A sus cuarenta y cinco años desde el primer Día
de la Tierra, nuestro planeta se está convirtiendo
Page 6 Entendiendo el Unitarismo: Su Paria en
Europa Oriental
¡Visita Anual del Investigador Balázs!
El investigador Balázs de esta primavera, el Rev.
Dr. Sandor Kovács, trae su profundo estudio
de la historia del unitarismo en Europa Oriental
(Hungría y Rumania) a nuestro Santuario este
domingo. Con un inglés fluido, el Dr. Kovács
conecta las fronteras entre Europa Oriental y el
Unitarismo Occidental y nos ayuda a conectarnos
con nuestros parientes en Transilvania quienes
mantuvieron viva a través de siglos de penuria
nuestra fe. Por favor traiga su generosidad (y
chequeras, si es posible), mientras nuestra
colecta especial va al programa de nuestra
iglesia hermana. ¡Enviaremos a 33 peregrinoembajadores a visitar nuestra iglesia hermana
en julio!
Dirige: el Rev. Dr. Sandor Kovács;
Asociado de Culto: Frank Bosche
In Our Own Voices
continued from page 4
• The ouroboros (the ancient symbol of the
snake eating its own tail) comes to mind when
I think of death and rebirth. I think of Easter,
I think of the miracles and mythologies of
Christ, and the rebirth of the earth in spring,
and how we each are constantly rebirthing
ourselves in the seasons of our lives, spiraling
along the lessons and journeys we encounter
again and again.
• Isis and Osiris, Inana and Dumuzi, the
risen Christ; political regimes violently
toppled and rebuilt, or the very physical
rebuilding of communities on the heels of
a natural disaster; a celebrity reinvents
herself; the law books get rewritten; South
Africa after apartheid, India after the end
of British Rule ... what do all of these
things have in common? Perhaps at the
core of transformation and rebirth is
hope? Hope that what has descended and
re-risen will arise more brightly than it did
before? Hope that what was destroyed was
somehow cleansed through its destruction?
This is the comely cousin of March’s theme
of Brokenness.
• The pagan wheel-of-the-year events, Ostara
and Beltane, offer sources here. Ostara
(vernal equinox) is a time of recognizing
rebirth and preparation for spring.
• I used to work for a man who was a bishop
in the Greek Orthodox Church. I usually saw
him in jeans and t-shirts, or some kind of
casual attire. He took me out for a beer
once, and let me borrow his car when mine
was in the shop. One day, I was chatting
with him in his office, both of us wearing
shorts and t-shirts (it was a hot day.) He
closed the door, and on the back of it his
bishop’s robes were hanging from a hook
on the top of the door. While we talked, he
robed, and I watched him transform from
a guy in street clothes, whom I had beers
with once, into ... well, a bishop. It was an
awesome transformation to witness. Like
seeing a superhero take off the shirt and
tie, stepping into a phone booth.
• Transformation and Rebirth: Chrysalis?
Phoenix? Reinterpretation? Reincarnation?
• Stories of change, evolution, possibilities.
Like the congregant who wrote that she/
he prefers “possibility” to the word “hope.”
Second chances can be ours—even
though some things, as Joanna Macy so
clearly puts it, cannot be changed back. We
can shift paradigms—hard as that may be.
Our Church Circular • April 2015• abril 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 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,
Thanksgving, 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
Our Church Circular • April 2015• abril 2015
•Engage participants physically as well as mentally and
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
B
uilding 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
T
he 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 - Pacific (YRUUP). 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
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 7
Core Principles
for Multicultural
Congregations
by the Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones
Although there is no single roadmap for
navigating this journey, there are certain
core principles confirmed by the current
literature on multicultural congregations
and by the experiences of our Unitarian
Universalist conversation partners. These
include:
1. Theological Vision: A powerful
commitment to an overarching
goal—something higher even than
multiculturalism itself. A commitment to
living our faith with integrity, which in
turn calls us to a life of radical inclusivity.
2. Clear Mission Statement: A
congregational mission that states this
commitment clearly.
3. Equitable, Accountable Governance:
Ensuring access and accountability for all
and institutionalizing growing our selfawareness around systems of power and
privilege. Opportunities for multiculturalism
and antiracism trainings are ongoing, with
everyone encouraged to participate.
4. Inclusive Worship in Style and
Message: People from non-dominant
cultures need to be able to see and hear
themselves reflected in words, music,
leadership, and sacred space.
5. Diverse Leadership: Having
multicultural teams lead worship, serve as
ministers, and participate in governance
communicates that the congregation
values everyone and recognizes their gifts.
6. Commitment to Working for
Justice in the Community: A way of
living our faith out loud and of letting the
community know that all are welcomed
and valued here.
7. Relationships Are Central: Like
all spiritually infused justice work,
relationships form the beginning, middle,
and end of this work. These relationships
meet people “where they are,” while
encouraging everyone to grow, stretch,
and be open to change.
8. Patience, Perseverance, Adaptability,
a Willingness to Try and to Try Again: A
sense of humor and a grounding in Love
are crucial, too!
Page 8 Principios Básicos para las Congregaciones Multiculturales
por la Rev. Nancy Palmer Jones y traducido por Roberto Padilla
A
unque no hay ningún mapa para navegar en este viaje, hay ciertos principios
fundamentales confirmados por la literatura actual en las congregaciones
multiculturales y por las experiencias platicadas de nuestros hermanos Unitarios
Universalistas. Estos incluyen:
1. Visión Teológica: Un poderoso compromiso con una meta — algo más
grande que el multiculturalismo en sí mismo. Un compromiso a vivir nuestra fe con
integridad, que a su vez nos llama a una vida de inclusión radical.
2. Misión Clara: Una misión congregacional que establece claramente este
compromiso.
3. Gobierno Equitativo, Responsable: Garantizar el acceso y responsabilidad
para todos e institucionalizar el crecimiento de nuestra auto-conciencia alrededor
de sistemas de poder y privilegio. Las oportunidades para el entrenamiento del
multiculturalismo y anti racismo están en curso, animándolos a todos a participar.
4. Culto Inclusivo en Estilo y Mensaje: La gente de culturas minoritarias necesitan
ser capaces de verse y oírse a ellos mismos reflejados en palabras, música, liderazgo y
espacio sagrado.
5. Liderazgo Diverso: Teniendo equipos multiculturales que dirijan el servicio,
sirvan como ministros y participen en la comunicación del gobierno que la
congregación valora de todos y reconoce sus dones.
6. Compromiso de Trabajar por la Justicia en la Comunidad: Una manera de vivir
nuestra fe en voz alta y de dejar que la comunidad sepa que todos son bienvenidos y
valorados aquí.
7. Las Relaciones Son Fundamentales: Como todo trabajo espiritual infundido
en justicia, las relaciones forman el principio, medio y final de este trabajo. Estas
relaciones reúnen gente “donde están,” al mismo tiempo alientan a todos a crecer, ser
flexibles y estar abiertos al cambio.
8. Paciencia, Perseverancia, Adaptabilidad, una Voluntad para Intentarlo e Intentarlo
de nuevo: ¡Un sentido del humor y un fundamento en el amor son cruciales, también!
2014-’15 Religious Education and Family Calendar
Sunday, April 5 Sunday, April 12
3-5 year olds 1st - 4th grades
5th-8th grades 9th-12th grades
Coming of Age (8th-10th)
Celebration Sunday - Easter - Flower Communion
NO CLASSES
The Golden Rule
Make Peace
Buddhism 1-Waking Up
Senior High Lead Today’s Worship Service
Mentor-Youth Meeting, 12:45- 2 pm
Sunday, April 19
3-5 year olds Chicken Sunday
1st -4th grades Build World Community
5th-8th grades Visit to Chung-Tai Szen Center of Sunnyvale
9th-12th grades Group meets at regular time, 11:30-12:30
Coming of Age Retreat/Mt. Madonna County Park, April 17-19
Parent Meeting 9:30-10:45 am, childcare available. Parents check in about their lives and parenting, followed by a discussion about parenting issues and concerns.
Sunday, April 26
3-5 year olds Earth Day Birthday
1st -4th grades Honor Life
5th-8th grades Buddhism II-Waking Up
9th-12th grades Group meets at regular time, 11:30-12:30
Our Church Circular • April 2015• abril 2015
Imagery Exercise
— from Spirituality & Practice,
www.spiritualityandpractice.com/
Animals transform our lives by their beauty, grace, wildness
and companionship...
We give thanks for the animals who live
close to nature. Who remind us of the
sanctities of life and death. Who do not
trouble their lives with foreboding or grief.
Who let go each moment as it passes.
And accept each new one as it comes with
serenity and grace. -Rev. Gary Kowalski
Pets & Health (Unitarian Universalist World
Magazine, Spring 2012)
Even in a tight economy, most households
in the United States continue to have
at least one pet. One reason may be
the health benefits. Pet ownership has
been shown to reduce blood pressure,
cholesterol levels, and feelings of
loneliness, while bringing owners more
exercise, outdoor activity, and contact with
their communities. Children who own pets
may grow in self-esteem, responsibility and
respect toward other living beings, and
enthusiasm for sports, hobbies, clubs, and
chores.
A personal connection to a real animal
gives a child a concrete experience of
the interdependent web of life and an
opportunity to develop empathy. As
blogger Michelle Richards writes, sharing
“secrets and private thoughts with a special
animal friend can encourage a child to
develop trusting relationships with others
and even help with the development of nonverbal communication skills.” If allergies,
Our Church Circular • April 2015 • abril 2015
busy schedules, or other obstacles prevent
pet ownership, help children bond with real
animals in other ways.
Put out bird feeders. What different colors
and kinds of birds come to feed?
Hint: Woodpeckers like suet, gold finches
eat thistle seed. Children can mix seed with
peanut butter and spread the mixture on
pine cones, hang suet in mesh bags, or
cut empty plastic soda bottles into feeders.
Clean the area regularly, to prevent the
spread of disease among the birds.
Images of transformation are often
idiosyncratic; what precipitates change
for one person may not do the same for
others. Here are three different exercises;
the first created by Colette Aboulker-Muscat
and the other two by us. You can try any or
all of them. The title reflects the intention.
“Opening to Possibilities.” Close your eyes
and breathe out three times. Find yourself in
a cocoon, knowing how it feels to be in there
and how much you can move around. Now
break the cocoon and find your way out.
Begin to stretch and with each movement
emit a sound. Sense all the different ways
your body is stretching and sounding. When
you are finished, open your eyes.
“Getting Unstuck.” Close your eyes and
breathe out three times. See yourself
stuck in a hole in the ground. Using a little
golden spade, a golden shovel, or a golden
backhoe (whatever you need), dig yourself
out of that place. Then open your eyes.
“Changing through Difficulties.” Close your
eyes and breathe out three times. See
yourself as a gem being polished through
friction. Know that through your trials and
difficulties you are being made to shine.
Then open your eyes.
Imagery Exercise
Be sure to continue winter bird feeding well
into spring weather.
Even in a city, you’ll find signs of wild
animals: a feather, scat droppings, nibbled
leaves, a spider’s web, holes in the ground,
or other animal homes. Go look for tracks
of birds, dogs, cats, and people in the snow
or mud. Talk about their different kinds of
feet. Who is going where? Why?
Even small and seemingly docile animals in
the wild can bite or scratch if trapped or
provoked. The best approach to wildlife is
to keep a safe distance—safe for you and
for them. Show your appreciation of wild
animals by helping to maintain the places
they live.
Draw a “Life Map” using any combination of
straight, curved, solid and broken lines. When
do you turn or spiral back into an earlier
pattern? Experiment with using different color
pens for the various periods of your life.
Include images to mark significant milestones
on your journey, as well as events you now
recognize as stepping stones to where you
are now. Circle the major points of transition
and put gold stars around transformations.
• Melannie Svoboda in Everyday Epiphanies
says you should surprise yourself and other
people.
• Shaun McNiff in Trust the Process
recommends transforming problems by
writing about them.
• Caroline W. Casey in Making the Gods
Work for You explains why all your demons
seem to act up just when you are ready to
change.
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 9
Board Update
T
he Board of Directors met on
Thursday, February 26. Treasurer
Bill Shepard reports that we still owe
about $61,000 on the UUA loan that we
took out after the 1995 fire. The current
payment schedule, at a 5.3% interest rate,
calls for that amount to be paid off in
October 2018. The Board agreed that it
makes sense for the Finance Committee
to look into whether we can get a better
rate or look into paying the loan off
earlier. We also finalized the list of
congregational goals and priorities that
has been in discussion since August.
We continued our discussion
regarding the changes in the last few
months as the YRUU youth group
disaffiliated from the Pacific Central
District of the UUA and began its new
affiliation with the Northern California
Unitarian Universalist Camps and
Conferences (NCUUCC), under its
new name, Young Religious Unitarian
Universalists—Pacific (YRUUP).
Reverend Nancy and Reverend Geoff
have been in communication with the
PCD members and with NCUUCC
to better understand the need for the
change and the consequences to our
congregation. Two youth members of
our congregation and/or YRUUP, Elara
Rivers and Sias Payne-Alex, attended
our meeting to answer our questions. We
are grateful for their continuing efforts
to bring increased transparency to the
relationship between these organizations
and for their leadership among UU youth
in the Pacific region.
Director Robert Strong shared a draft
of documents he created to bring clarity to
the ministerial evaluation process. Finally,
we finalized plans for the congregational
election meeting on March 22. Our next
board meeting is scheduled for Thursday,
March 26 at 7 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Coleman
Secretary, FUCSJ Board of Directors
Page 10 Third Street Benefit “Inspire Young Minds”
Scheduled for May 16
Our Dear Friends of Third Street,
As we continue to move forward with our ongoing fundraising efforts, we have
made progress with our annual event. Please mark your calendars for Saturday, May 2,
and join us for our annual benefit: Inspire Young Minds. Tickets will be on sale soon.
The event will start at 6 pm (registration, wine, appetizers), followed by dinner and a
program.
If you have time, we are looking for one or two people who can help manage
our silent auction. Work includes securing items, organizing bid sheets, etc. We
are also looking for table and event sponsors. If you work for a company that has a
philanthropic heart, please ask them to sponsor a table of 10. Companies tend to
sponsor when an employee asks. Please contact Rosemary Baez if you would like to
discuss your involvement.
Thank you again for your ongoing support of Third Street!
Warmly,
Vicky Del Arenal, Board Chair
Rosemary Baez, Executive Director
The Guitars Aloud group, founded by Beth Hilton, prepares to play a tribute to Beth
at her Celebration of Life service on Saturday, February 28. as friends, neighbors and
fellow musicians, including her many students, gather to pay their final respects.
Our Church Circular • April 2015• abril 2015
Upcoming Events and Announcements
Book Study
The First New Testament:
Marcion’s Scriptural Canon
by Jason D. BeDuhn
Sunday, May 3, 1 - 3 pm,
Conference Room, led by Bob Miess
W
e will be taking a break from our
study in April. On May 3 we will
pick up again, continuing our reading
of Jason BeDuhn’s book, The First New
Testament: Marcion’s Scriptural Canon,
about Marcion, a second-century heretic,
and 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. In May we will
discuss the first part of Chapter 4 (pages
203-228), an introduction to Marcion’s
Apostolikon (the letters of Paul that were in
his New Testament) and BeDuhn’s approach
to reconstructing it. Please bring a Bible
with the Paul’s letters for comparison – any
translation will do – or use one of our copies
during the session. If you don’t have one,
you might pick up “The Authentic Letters
of Paul” which provides a copy of the letters,
along with some notes about what we know
from recent scholarship. Questions? Contact
Bob Miess, Bob@Heart-HealthyLifestyles.
com, 408-753-0541. l
Women’s Alliance Meeting
Thursday, April 2, 7:15-9:15 pm,
Conference Room
A
t this session, we will discuss
pp. 114-157 in President Jimmy
Carter’s A Call to Action: Women,
Religion, Violence, and Power. For more
information, contact Nancy Coleman
at [email protected] or 408 985
5778. All are welcome. l
HUUmanati Sunday
Forum
T
he Sunday Forum is on hiatus for the
time being. l
Our Church Circular • April 2015 • abril 2015
Submitting Ideas to Social
Dances of Universal Peace Justice Council
Friday, April 3, 6-8:00 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
movements, are taught each time.
Questions? Email Patrick Smiley at
[email protected] or leave a
message at 408-421-6492. l
Annual Mystery Musical
Comedy Auditions!
Friday, April 10, 7:30 pm, Ramsden
Fireside Room; and Sunday, April
12, 2:15 pm, Conference Room
D
o you want to be part of the most
crazy fun and entertaining event
of the church year? Come to an open
audition for the 6th annual FUCSJ
Mystery Musical Comedy fund-raiser
at the times and places listed above.
The show--Ultimate Idol--is a spoof
on TV talent shows and will run for
three performances on October 9-11,
raising money to support the church’s
PACT dues. If you plan to try out for a
singing part, you may prepare a 16-bar
song excerpt (bring sheet music) or sing
one of the standards available. All of
the roles are flexible regarding gender
and wll be tailored to the performer
selected. Auditions are for newcomers
and veterans of past shows alike. (Even
the show’s author, Henry Ruddle, will
be auditioning). If neither April 10 nor
12 work for your schedule, email the
director, Amy Baldwin, abaldwinbix@
aol.com, to make other arrangements.
Please RSVP for the open auditions with
Jay Porter at [email protected]. l
Monday, April 13, 7:00 pm,
Conference Room
T
o be more transparent about how
projects are proposed, the Social
Justice Council wants people of all ages
to know that any of you may submit your
ideas, such as projects or events, either
on paper or by email to the Social Justice
Council. Write up your idea with your
plan to make it successful and submit
it to the Social Justice Council by email
or bring it to the meeting. Some funds
may be available. Social Justice Council
meetings are the second Mondays of the
month. Contact John Burk at 408-2593781 or [email protected] with
the Subject line: Social Justice Project.
Please join us to make your voice
heard! l
HUUmanati Monthly
Monday Meeting
Monday, April 20, 7:30- 9 pm, Library
W
hat’s On Your Mind? Our
meetings are no-pressure gettogethers and conversations about
anything on your mind. There might be
board games. Join us! l
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 pm for a checkin about our meditation experience, and
practice. To be put on the meditation
group email list, contact meditation
group convener, Rev. Geoff Rimositis,
[email protected]. l
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 11
“Let’s Play with Story” A Workshop with
Professional Storyteller Olga Loya
Saturday, July 11, 10 am - 3 pm;
Saturday, July 18, 10 am - 2 pm; and
Sunday, July 19 at Worship Service
F
UCSJ member Olga Loya will work
closely with participants to explore
and develop their own storytelling
styles, utilizing many fun and exciting
storytelling games and exercises.
This workshop focuses on folklore.
Participants will learn a short folktale,
myth, or legend and then present the
stories to the congregation in worship on
Sunday, July 19. Participants can work in
teams if they desire. Please bring a short
folk tale or myth that you would like to
learn. And bring a lunch and beverage.
Cost $50.
To register for this workshop, please
contact Office Manager Dana Spinney at
[email protected] by July 1st.
Olga Loya is a nationally known
bilingual (English-Spanish) storyteller,
performance artist, teacher, and writer
who presents to all ages from preschool
to seniors. She tells stories that support
her beliefs that we can work together as
a community, that we can learn to look
beyond racial and class lines, and that
we can take the time to enjoy ourselves
through stories and song.
For the last thirty years Olga has
performed and led workshops all over
Page 12 the USA and Mexico. She has been
featured in many festivals including
the Guadalajara Storytelling Festival,
the National Storytelling Festival
in Jonesborough, and at her home
congregation of the First Unitarian
Church of San José. l
Join the 150th
Anniversary Committee
T
he 150th Anniversary Committee
has been organizing the celebration
of our church’s 150th year! It will be
kicked off with a party on October
18, 2015, commemorating the 20th
anniversary of the church’s fire, and our
congregation’s reemergence after it. We
need your help!
Our most urgent need is for assistance
with the kickoff party (if interested,
please contact Madeline Morrow at
[email protected]). The
150th Anniversary History Project is
researching major actions/events that our
church has taken/held to make love visible
over the past 150 years. If you’re interested
in assisting with historical research and/or
have stories (documents/photos/artifacts)
to share (please contact Kristin Rivers at
[email protected]). For stories that
might be better shared out loud, please
contact Patrick Canonge at pjcanonge@
gmail.com to participate in (or help with)
the 150th Anniversary Oral History
Project. Thank you! l
UUthful Spirits
Second and fourth Sundays, 12:45 pm,
Hattie Porter Hall by Newcomer’s table
J
oin our young adult and young-at-heart
fellowship group for Sunday Lunch!
Meet in Hattie Porter Hall nearish the
Newcomer’s table about 12:45 pm. For
information, contact [email protected]. l
Circle Suppers
Saturday & Sunday, April 18 & 19,
RSVP (by April 6) for locations
C
ircle Suppers offer an opportunity
for members of the church
community to get to know one another
at casual potluck 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. Questions? Contact Barbara at
[email protected]. The deadline
to sign up is Monday, April 6.l
My Ministry in the World
Sunday, April 19, 1 - 3 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 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, [email protected], 408-753-0541. l
Healing Circle
T
he will be no Healing Circle meeting
in April. 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 • April 2015• abril 2015
Rights of Nature Group:
“Cowspiracy!”
2015 Partner Church
Pilgrimage is Full
Sunday, April 19, 12:45-2:00 pm,
Ramsden Fireside Room
T
J
oin the Rights of Nature group for the
showing of the film “Cowspiracy--the
Sustainability Secret” which documents
how the world’s largest environmental
organizations are failing to address the
single most destructive force facing
the planet today. Follow the shocking,
yet humorous, journey of an aspiring
environmentalist, as he daringly seeks to
find the real solution to the most pressing
environmental issues and true path to
sustainability.
Climate Justice Month is
Here!
From World Water Day (Climate
Justice Sunday, March 22) to Earth
Day (Wednesday, April 22), Unitarian
Universalists and other people of faith
and conscience can embark on a spiritual
journey for climate justice.
Individuals, families, groups, and
congregations can get faith-filled
resources, engage in powerful practices
throughout the month, learn together,
and discern how to most effectively shift
to a low carbon future, advance human
rights, and grow the climate justice
movement. Get the details and sign up
for Climate Justice Month daily messages.
Climate Justice Month is being
organized by Commit2Respond, the
new climate justice initiative led by UU
groups across our faith movement. Join
Commit2Respond to participate.
Be inspired, get connected with
other people of faith and conscience
committed to climate justice, and commit
to long-term actions that will help save
our world. How will you respond?
www.commit2respond.org
The Rights of Nature Group at
FUCSJ has signed up but you can also
join as an individual. For information
see the website, or contact Frey Leigh
[email protected]. l
Our Church Circular • April 2015 • abril 2015
First Unitarian Parents
of Young Children
he Partner Church Pilgrimage to
Homoródszentmárton, Romania this
summer was consolidated into a single
trip from July 16 to July 30.
The trip is now full with a roster of 34
travelers. All group airline tickets have
been purchased and accommodations
have been booked. l
Support group for parents of young
children meets in the church’s
downstairs class-room the third
Sunday of each month from 9:3010:45 am. Child care is provided. Rev.
Geoff Rimositis facilitates meetings.
Parents volunteer to be monthly topic
leaders.
Blood Drive May 17
Please Participate!
T
by Nicole Faby
D
o you need an excuse to eat cookies
and not do any housework? If so,
please feed two birds with one seed
by donating at our blood drive! Many
people in our community need blood
transfusions — cancer patients receiving
chemotherapy need them to keep their
strength up and accident victims and
surgery patients need to replace lost
blood. Unfortunately, in the Bay Area
there are frequent blood shortages due
to lack of sufficient blood donations.
Because of the ongoing need in our
community for blood, our church is
going to host a blood drive from 10 am
to 2 pm on Sunday, May 17. If you would
like to sign up to donate please go to
sbcdonor.org or call 650-723-7831.
To be eligible to donate blood, you
must weigh at least 110 pounds, be free
of cold and flu symptoms, be at least
17 years old (16 with written parental
permission), eat and drink sufficient
food and fluids beforehand, and
bring photo ID. (Please go to http://
bloodcenter.stanford.edu/donate/
EligibilityMedHisDeferral.html to learn
more about blood donor eligibility).
The blood donation process takes
approximately 45 minutes — 15 minutes
for eligibility screening, 15 minutes for
giving blood, and 15 minutes for eating
cookies in the canteen. l
UU Parents Meetup
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 http://sanjoseuu.org who
wanted an easy way to get to know likeminded parents. 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 408-2923858, ext. 225.
Transformational
Theme-based Ministry:
Themes 2014-2015
In our current church year, we return to Year
One in our three-year cycle of transformational
themes. As we cycle through the themes (slightly
revised) a second time, we spiral deeper into what
they mean for us in this time and place.
u September: Oneness /The Unity in
Unitarian
u October: Death
u November: Gratitude
u December: Hope
u January: Creation
u February: Love
u March: Brokenness
u April: Transformation and Rebirth
u May: Awe and Wonder
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 13
Save the Year!
FUCSJ is approaching some
significant anniversaries:
uNovember 25, 1865: Rev. Ames gives
a sermon that sparks formation of a
Unitarian church in San Jose
uFall of 1866: Formation of Unity Church
(that’s us!)
u Fall of 1891: Cornerstone of church
building laid
uOctober 16, 1995: Church fire
T
he 150th Anniversary Celebration
committee plans a series of events for
2015-2016. We will have a big party in
fall 2015 to mark the 20th anniversary of
the fire and the 150th anniversary of our
spark: the Ames sermon. We will finish
with an even bigger event in fall 2016
to mark the 150th anniversary of our
founding and the 125th anniversary of
the laying of the cornerstone. All through
the year we will have commemorations
and events that reach out to the wider
community, including a historic note
every Sunday, a FUCSJ history exhibit
at MLK Library, church tours for the
community, invitational art exhibit on
themes from our history of working for
social justice, a concert (or concerts),
and more outreach: an anniversary book,
displays inside church, on the website, a
banner on our building.
Collectively we want to create a vision
for the future as we celebrate our history.
You can join in. The 150th
Anniversary Committee will be
coordinating the entire celebration, but
this is big, and we are setting up five
subcommittees:
Historical research (Kristin Rivers
and Catherine Pelizzari so far),
Financial, Event Planning, Public
relations/Publicity, and Displays/
Publications. Interested in making this
celebration fun, spiritually enriching and
community-building while preparing
us to go boldly into the next 150 years?
Contact coordinators Robert Strong
([email protected]) or Madeline
Morrow. (madelinemorrow@earthlink.
net). l
Page 14 Connect with FUCSJ’s
Online Ministries via
Facebook!
Get First Unitarian Church of San José
updates, reminders, inside scoops, minister’s
messages, and more every day of the week
on our Facebook page! You can “Like” our
page: facebook.com/FUCSJ
Help us grow our online presence and
continue the conversation on our Facebook
page. “First Unitarian Church of San José.”
New articles, thoughtful quotes, and photos
every week! Rev. Nancy welcomes your Friend
requests on Facebook, as well. You can find
her at “Nancy Palmer Jones.” You will find
lots of FUCSJ friends and friends-to-be on
Facebook, as well as the UU Parents Meetup
group, and more.
The Alegría Singers
Wednesdays, 7:00-9 pm, Sanctuary
J
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
Guitars Aloud
Wednesdays, 6 -7:15 pm, Sanctuary
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]
Like to Write? Check Out
the UU Band of Writers
First Sundays, Youth Room
T
he UU Band of Writers offers
support and encouragement to
people who enjoy writing. We have a
monthly homework assignment and a
10-minute writing session during our
meetings, which is always a lot of fun. We
meet the first Sunday of each month at
1 pm in the Youth Room. New people are
always welcome. Hope to see YOU on
Sunday, April 5 or Sunday May 3! l
Community Dance
First and Third 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.
April 19: After-dance jam session using
The Portland Collection (contra) 5-7
pm. Contact Susan Torngren, storngren@
comcast.net, for more information. l
Our Church Circular • April 2015• abril 2015
UU Hikers and Friends
Here’s our April 2015 hiking schedule.
Please call or email me if you plan to hike.
Home phone, 408 730-1052; cell, 408
769-0534; email, j408miller@sbcglobal.
net. ­—Joyce Miller
Wednesday, April 1
Russian Ridge, 5 miles, moderate. Meet at Page
Mill/280 Park and Ride at 8:30 am. Hopefully the
wildflowers will be lovely.
Saturday, April 4
Alum Rock Park, 6-7 miles, moderate. Meet at VTA
parking lot at Capitol and Alum Rock at 8:30 am.
Wednesday, April 8
Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve. Two hikes
(maybe three): one long, around 7-8 miles,
moderate to strenuous, and two, one moderate,
about 4 miles and another slightly more difficult,
also about 4 miles. We can decide when we
get there which of the shorter hikes we want to
do. We will carpool from the parking lot at the
Berryessa Community Center at 3050 Berryessa
Road at 8:30 am.
This is a long day if you decide to stay
for an early dinner in San Juan Bautista
( and most of us do)
Wednesday, April 22
Purisima Redwoods. This is a shuttle hike. Meet at
Page Mill/280 at 8:30 am. We will do the usual hike
with no modification. I think I can do it.
Saturday, April 25
Rancho Canada del Oro, 5 miles, moderate. We
did this hike last week very slowly taking in the
beauty of the wild flowers and incredible vistas.
Even though there are some steep hills they are
relatively short and doable. We all decided this
was a “keeper.” Meet at Bed Bath & Beyond at
Almaden Plaza Shopping Center at 8:30 am.
Wednesday, April 29
Grizzly Flat/Long Ridge to Horseshoe Lake in
Skyline Ridge Open Space. We have done this hike
once. We liked it but this time we will not do the
additional loop in Skyline which made it too long.
Meet in Saratoga at parking lot behind US Bank
building at 8:30 am.
Saturday, April 11
Joseph Grant County Park, 6 miles, moderate.
Meet at VTA Park and Ride on Capitol and Alum
Rock at 8:30 am. This is modified hike I did a
couple of months ago. It has some hills but not
too hard if taken slowly. It is very pretty.
Wednesday, April 15
Arastradero, 5 miles moderate. I have scheduled
this hike even though we are going to the Pinnacles
on Friday, April 17. Meet at trail head at 8:30 am.
Friday, April 17: The Pinnacles
Pinnacles National Monument. 6 miles,
moderate. Meet at Bed, Bath & Beyond at
Almaden Plaza Shopping center at 8:00
am. (We need to get an early start so I am
keeping it at 8 am.) I will be sending out
an email a couple of weeks before to see
how many want to go and who will be
driving. I will do a modified hike for me
and anyone else who does not want to do
the High Peaks Trail. I have not figured
it out yet but will do so before the hike.
General Assembly 2015
June 24-28, Portland, OR
Building a New Way
T
he theme for GA 2015 is Building
a New Way. Most events will be
held in the Oregon Convention Center,
777 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd,
Portland, OR 97232.
Go to http://www.uua.org/ga to
learn more about this year’s gathering
of Unitarian universalists from all
over the country. A leading feature of
General Assembly is the Ware Lecture,
which this year will be given by the
distinguished and provocative democratic
communicator Dr. Cornel West.
Remember to bring
your recyclable bottles
and cans to help
cover expenses of this
newsletter!
Our Church Circular • April 2015 • abril 2015
District Assembly 2015
Save the Date!
Saturday, April 25, 2015
Walking A Faithful Path
D
istrict Assembly 2015 will be held
Saturday, April 25, 2015 at the First
UU Society of San Francisco. We are
very excited about the possibilities for
this year’s program, which will be on the
theme “Walking a Faithful Path.”
We have a wonderful day planned,
including two vibrant services organized
by our worship team, Rev. Theresa
Novak, Rev. Russ Menk, and Music
Director Shawn Reifschneider; an
innovative all-generations morning
program; an array of dynamic and
interesting workshops; and opportunities
to discuss some of the current challenges
and opportunities facing the PCD today.
We will also be holding our PCDUUA Annual Meeting —it’s never to
early to organize your congregation’s
delegates for this important meeting.
We are very grateful to the First UU
Society of San Francisco for hosting our
annual District Assembly!
Join us for dynamic worship,
workshops, connections, and celebration!
Watch the PCD Web Site and this
newsletter for more information.
PS: Has your congregation elected
your delegates to the PCD Annual
Meeting? Would you like to be a
volunteer for an hour or two, helping
at the registration desk or providing a
welcoming, hospitable presence for our
participants? Do you have special skills
in Audio-Visual technology that you
would be willing to volunteer for the
day? If so, then please contact District
Administrator Chuck Rosene at (510)
530-1437 or [email protected]. l
Primera Iglesia Unitaria de San José • Page 15
FIRST UNITARIAN CHURCH of San José
160 North Third Street
San José, CA 95112
Want to Receive the Newsletter?
To receive the newsletter on paper, fill out the form
at this link:
http://sanjoseuu.org/form/index.php?sid=2
or call (408) 292-3858
To receive the newsletter via email:
[email protected]
or join the church’s Yahoo Group:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/uusj
Next issue copy deadline:
3 pm, Wednesday, April 22
Mailing:
Wednesday, April 29
View this newsletter online in PDF
format at: sanjoseuu.org
Donations are welcome to help defray the cost of printing and mailing.
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
[email protected]
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]
Our Church Circular is published on
the last Wednesday of each month. OFFICERS
Circulation is about 500.
PRESIDENT Madeline Morrow,
[email protected]
Translator: Roberto Padilla
SECRETARY
Nancy Coleman,
Assembly Coordinators: Andrea Dinolt,
[email protected]
Rebecca Mason
TREASURER Bill Shepard, [email protected]
Thanks for all the work you do and PERSONNEL OFFICER Sally Cooperrider
care you put into the newsletter.
[email protected]
PROGRAM OFFICER Francisco Hernandez,
[email protected]
FINANCIAL OFFICER Dena Dickinson,
[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]
CHOIR DIRECTOR, John Ector,
[email protected]
OFFICE MANAGER, Dana Spinney,
Ext. 221, [email protected]
BOOKKEEPER Sue Evanicky,
Ext. 227 [email protected]
CUSTODIAN Edgar Cruz
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
NURSERY Danni Fernandez, Kimberly Fernandez
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Frank Bosche, [email protected]
Roberto Padilla, [email protected]
Marnie Singer, [email protected]
Rob Strong, [email protected]