Unitarian Universalists of Petaluma

The purpose of this congregation is to provide a haven where members can share in a spiritually, culturally, and socially diverse local religious community. We envision a congregation that will be welcoming to all, that values the contributions of each member in shared ministry, and that actively promotes and models individual development of an ethical way of living. We are intentionally intergenerational, and covenant to provide religious education and spiritual growth for children and adults.

Wednesday, October 26, 2005

This Week at UUP: October 26

For complete up-to-date info on the Unitarian Universalists of
Petaluma, see our website: http://www.uupetaluma.org

*******************************************************************************
(Social time with bagels / coffee / tea / juice begins at 10:00, at the Petaluma Woman's Club, 518 B Street. Worship service at 10:30)


Sunday, October 30: "Une baile con la muerta"
- A Dance with Death
Guest speaker, Dr.Kimberly Bateman

Psychologist and story teller, Dr. Kimberly Bateman, will discuss how worldwide mythologies inform our understanding of the life/death/life nature of reality with an emphasis on personal applications.

November 6: "The Purpose of Life."
Regular guest minister, Leland Bond-Upson.

I do believe I know. Or rather, I believe I have at least as good an idea as any astrophysicist or philosopher, and a better idea than most theologians. As the Buddhists believe, and perhaps intuition suggests, it's quite simple. But ah! --the implications! And hey --what about the meaning of life? Is that the same as the purpose, or different?

After the service, Leland will meet with anyone who would like to gain further insight into the basics of Unitarian Universalism. A membership committee representative will be on hand to answer questions about becoming a member of UUP.
********************************************************************************
UUP Halloween Party this Sunday Afternoon

KC and Matt will be hosting a Halloween Party on Sunday, October 30th from 4:30-7:30 at their home at 8 Nob Hill Terrace. Bing a pot-luck dish to share for dinner (required), a pumpkin to carve (optional), and a costumed self (preferred).
*********************************************************************************
RE Classes to Mark the Day of the Dead

Children ages 4-10, this Sunday, Oct 30 , we will be exploring Day of the Dead in our religious education class. Please bring if you can (or you can draw in class) a picture or memento of a loved person or pet who has died, we will make an altar for them. We will also be doing related crafts and reading books about Dia de los Muertos.

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Last Call for Adult Religious Exploration Registration

We have four potential activity and discussion groups planned for our Adult RE program this fall. I f you are interested in signing up for one of these groups please email Adee Swanson at uupetaluma at gmail.com and remember to include your phone number so we can contact you about the schedule. The clipboard will NOT be at church this week so send Adee that email asap if you've been procrastinating . Here are the descriptions of the Adult RE offerings:
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Please Note: Spiritual Film Series - Begins November 16!!!

View and discuss a series of films shown in members' homes: What the Bleep Do We Know, and other films that tackle life's big questions. The first film will be at Stacey's home and at the moment What the Bleep is the leading choice for the first show. Email Stacey with any questions at stacey at graphicsingreen.com

Hosts are needed for this group and a big screen and good sound preferred for best viewing. However, since so many of you asked, it is completely OK for those of us with small screens to participate. It is not expected that everyone take a turn hosting.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Chosen Faith: An introduction to Unitarian Universalism
by John Buehrens and Forrest Church
(a book discussion group)

Thought-provoking, entertaining sourcebook for searchers, newcomers and lifelong learners. Discuss a chapter per month. $15
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Building Your Own Theology
(A curriculum developed by the Unitarian Universalist Association)

The classic model for developing a personal theology. Begins with an introduction to the Purposes and Principles. Participants will learn the critical steps towards creating a personal credo--a specific set of meanings, values and convictions that inform and direct the living of one's life. $16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Evensong

A weekly evening ritual gathering to share spiritual poetry, music, and a set liturgy to be crafted by the group in initial meetings.
****************************************************************************
Last Call for Contact Info Forms

Please keep an eye out for an insert in your order of service this week that will allow you to easily and quickly update your contact information for the UUP Directory. There will be a basket on the back table for the slips. This is the last week for the inserts in the order of service. If you are in the directory already and I have not heard from you, you'll be getting an email soon to verify the information we have is correct.

Remember that there is a box to check if you would like to have a information about your business, hobby, workshops, or artwork included in our new "Passions & Professions" UUP community resource binder.
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Wanted: Gingerbread Bakers, Decoration Makers, Debris Takers

Before we get to allemande and do-see-do at our 11/13 Harvest Folk Dance, we need volunteers in the above areas. For baking, contact Marlene Abel (MarleneA at Sonic.net); for decorating, Carol West (Carol.West2 at Comcast.net); cleaning-up, Barbara Marlin-Coole (marcoole at comcast.net). Thank you!
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Worship Committee Suggestion Box

Worship services are planned with the congregation's wishes and needs in mind. The worship associate committee strives to be responsive to our members' comments, suggestions, constructive criticism, and praise. The worship suggestion box will be on the UU table in the back after the service this Sunday for you to pass your comments along to the worship committee.
********************************************************************************* UUSC: Help for Victims of the Himalayan Earthquake

The situation is desperate in the Himalayan regions of Pakistan and India, following the major earthquake of
October 8.

What You Can Do:
UUSC and the Unitarian Universalist Association have created a joint fund to respond to this disaster, and UUSC's Rights in Humanitarian Crises Program has kicked into high gear.
But we need your help!

Please consider making as generous a contribution as you can to help the thousands of people in desperate need in the earthquake-affected areas. Your donation, together with UUSC's expertise in responding to humanitarian crises, can make a difference. UUSC is already working with organizations in the area. Your special contribution today - and your compassion - can save lives.

Donations to the UUSC-UUA South Asia Earthquake Relief Fund can be made online or by mail at P.O. Box 845259, Boston, MA 02284-5259. For more information about the UUSC-UUA response to the earthquake or to make a donation online, visit our website, www.uusc.org.
***********************************************************************************
Regularly Scheduled Gatherings:

-Larking About (choir) meets Thursday evenings from 7:30-9:30pm @ Nancy's.
*********************************************************************************
If you have changed your email address or would like to be added to or removed from the UUP list please email Christian Boatsman at christian at biosearchtech.com

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Wednesday, October 19, 2005

This Week at UUP: October 19

For complete up-to-date info on the Unitarian Universalists of
Petaluma, see our website: http://www.uupetaluma.org

*******************************************************************************
(Social time with bagels / coffee / tea / juice begins at 10:00, at the Petaluma Woman's Club, 518 B Street. Worship service at 10:30)

October 23: "Rachel Carson: Her Life and Work":
Guest speaker, Lilith Rogers

There is more need than ever before for the people of our world to wake up and start protecting our air, water and soil. Rachel Carson (1907-1964), one of the most influential writers and thinkers of the 20th century, is widely regarded as the founding mother of the modern environmental movement. Her best-selling book, Silent Spring (1962), alerted the American public to the dangers posed by the widespread and careless use of pesticides other chlorinated hydrocarbons which came into widespread distribution during and immediately after WWII. Rogers tells Carson's story in the first person, revealing the many personal challenges Carson faced in her life. Rogers inspires others to realize that, through perseverance and dedication, one can achieve one's goals, that one person can truly make an important difference.

Sunday, October 30: "Un baile con la muerta"
- A Dance with Death
Guest speaker, Dr. Kimberly Bateman

Psychologist and story teller, Dr. Kimberly Bateman, will discuss how worldwide mythologies inform our understanding of the life/death/life nature of reality with an emphasis on personal applications.
********************************************************************************
Come to a UUP Halloween Party

KC and Matt will be hosting a Halloween Party on Sunday, October 30th from 4:30-7:30 at their home at 8 Nob Hill Terrace. Bing a pot-luck dish to share for dinner (required), a pumpkin to carve (optional), and a costumed self (preferred).
*********************************************************************************
Worship Committee Suggestion Box

Worship services are planned with the congregation's wishes and needs in mind. The worship associate committee strives to be responsive to our members' comments, suggestions, constructive criticism, and praise. The worship suggestion box will be on the UU table in the back after the service this Sunday for you to pass your comments along to the worship committee.
*****************************************************************************
November 13 Harvest Folk Dance

The Ray Bierl String Band will be fiddlin' and Erik Hoffman will be callin' at our Sunday, November 13, Harvest Folk Dance. But there won't be any fiddlin' or callin' without a little volunteerin'! Openings available now for:

Raffle/Mystery-Prizes Coordinator : Work with Celeste or Barbara M-C to plan, recruit a couple of assistants, and then co-ordinate and delegate while others do the gift-wrapping.

Ticketing and Security Captain: Set up orderly and secure procedure for receiving guests, taking entrance fees, getting receipts, and keeping out large dogs. You, also, get to recruit a couple of assistants and tell them what to do!

Contact Celeste (CDurrum at PacBell.net) if you can help out.

********************************************************************************************
Contact Info Update & Our First Steps Toward Getting the "Passions & Professions Binder" Started

Please keep an eye out for an insert in your order of service for the next two weeks that will allow you to easily and quickly update your contact information for the UUP Directory. There will be a basket on the back table for you to deposit the slips in.

Included on the short form is a box to check if you would like to have a information about your business, hobby, workshops, or artwork included in our new "Passions & Professions" UUP community resource binder.
***********************************************************************************************
Three Vacancies on the UUP Board of Trustees

Have you considered the possibility that you might be a good candidate for the UUP Board? This December, at our semi-annual congregational meeting, we will elect three new members to our Board.

Our Board is our day-to-day governing body, and is responsible for the nuts and bolts aspects of running a congregation. Individual Board members act as liaisons to the various committees, and take on particular areas of responsibility.

The Nominating Committee exists to nominate members to serve on the Board, and is composed of Naomi Davis, David Dodd, and Jennine Lanouette--each a former Board member--and welcomes your expression of interest in seeking election to the Board. UUP bylaws specify that members of the Board must be voting members. The term of office is three years. Please contact any one of them to nominate yourself, or to ask whatever questions you might have about the duties of a Board member.

Also feel free to speak with any current Board member about what is going on with the Board these days, and what work they are focusing on in the current year. Board members are: David Hathaway(President); KC Greaney (Chair); Karen Elliott (Treasurer); Marlene Abel; and Nancy Blake.
******************************************************************************
Adult Religious Exploration

We have four potential activity and discussion groups planned for our Adult RE program this fall. The sign-up sheet will be on a clipboard on the back table for the next few Sundays. Everyone is welcome, so feel free to let other friends in the community know about this! If you are not going to be attending services for a few weeks you may also email Adee Swanson at uupetaluma@gmail.com to express your interest in a class. Availability is subject to interest -so sign up and make them happen. Below is a description of the potential Adult RE offerings:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Chosen Faith: An introduction to Unitarian Universalism
by John Buehrens and Forrest Church
(a book discussion group)

Thought-provoking, entertaining sourcebook for searchers, newcomers and lifelong learners. Discuss a chapter per month. $15
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Building Your Own Theology
(A curriculum developed by the Unitarian Universalist Association)

The classic model for developing a personal theology. Begins with an introduction to the Purposes and Principles. Participants will learn the critical steps towards creating a personal credo--a specific set of meanings, values and convictions that inform and direct the living of one's life. $16
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spiritual Film Series

View and discuss a series of films shown in members' homes: What the Bleep Do We Know, and other films that tackle life's big questions.

Hosts needed (big screen and good sound preferred for best viewing)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Evensong

A weekly evening ritual gathering to share spiritual poetry, music, and a set liturgy to be crafted by the group in initial meetings.
************************************************************************************
UUSC: Help for Victims of the Himalayan Earthquake

The situation is desperate in the Himalayan regions of Pakistan and India, following the major earthquake of October 8. The relief effort has still not reached over one-fifth of the villages badly hit by the earthquake, because roads and bridges are out - and because the relief effort cannot meet the magnitude of the need. The Himalayan winter is closing in. The window of time in which we can make a difference is closing.

What You Can Do:
UUSC and the Unitarian Universalist Association have created a joint fund to respond to this disaster, and UUSC's Rights in Humanitarian Crises Program has kicked into high gear. But we need your help!

Please make as generous a contribution as you can to help the thousands of people in desperate need in the earthquake-affected areas. Your donation, together with UUSC's expertise in responding to humanitarian crises, can make a difference. UUSC is already working with organizations in the area. Your special contribution today - and your compassion - can save lives.

Donations to the UUSC-UUA South Asia Earthquake Relief Fund can be made online or by mail at P.O. Box 845259, Boston, MA 02284-5259. For more information about the UUSC-UUA response to the earthquake or to make a donation online, visit our website, www.uusc.org.
***********************************************************************************
Regularly Scheduled Gatherings:

-Larking About (choir) meets Thursday evenings from 7:30-9:30pm @ Nancy's.

-Membership & Hospitality Committee will meet Monday, October 24 at Elaine's.

************************************************************************************
If you have changed your email address or would like to be added to or removed from the UUP list please email Christian Boatsman at christian at biosearchtech.com

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UU Legislative Ministry message

Dear fellow UU's,

The Virtual UU Meeting House now has all eight Propositions live and on-line – (Please, remember your UU manners and the fact that UUs are from many different political parties when you post a comment!)

Check it out at www.uulmca.org

In addition to shorter "Visitor Comments" which you can post directly on-line, we are still looking for a few people to write up more formal “UU Commentary” that reaches beyond the “policy wonk” level, drawing on UU values and including a more personal experience with the issue. We would especially like to see such commentary on Prop 75, 78 and 79 (pro or con). Please send it to meetinghouse@uulmca.org

Last, but not least, the UULM Action Network Board of Trustees (our companion 501 (c) 4 organization) has taken positions on several of the propositions. They recommend the following:No on Propositions 73, 74, 75, 76, and 78...Yes on Proposition 79...(They did not take a position on 77 or 80).

Archbishop Oscar Romero once said that "Voting is but one note in the symphony of democracy." If you have time to volunteer on a phone bank or otherwise help on an issue that you care about, now is the time. You can find the organizations supporting and opposing the various propositions on the Virtual UU Meeting House.

And... remember to vote on November 8th. They are predicting a low turnout - every vote will be important.

Sincerely,

Rev. Lindi Ramsden
UU Legislative Ministry, CA

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Saturday, October 15, 2005

Spiritual Grounding

Sunday November 13, 9-5 at the Golden Gate Club, Presidio
Cost $60
A program including presentations, spiritual practices, music, discussion and lunch, with six speakers (Interfaith, Sufi, Jewish, Islamic, Chan Buddhist, and Universal Wisdom Teachings/Psychological)Conference presented by The Guild for Psychological Studies (where we have out annual UUP Retreat) The Interfaith Council at the Presidio, and Bhahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization. For inforation jcgansa at pacbell.net or look at http://www.guildsf.org

Thursday, October 13, 2005

Shelter Rock UU Congregation Hurricane Relief Challenge Grant

A note from the President of the Unitarian Universalist Association, Rev. William Sinkford: (UUP's special offering for Hurricane Relief in September raised over $1,000)


October 11, 2005
Dear Friends:

It is with gratitude and joy that we share some very special news. A generous challenge grant has been offered by the UU Congregation at Shelter Rock to benefit the UUA-UUSC Gulf Coast Relief Fund. Beginning with contributions dated October 2, 2005, Shelter Rock will match each dollar given to the fund, up to a total of $500,000.

This challenge grant represents a deep faith in the generosity of Unitarian Universalists, a faith that is well-founded. Thanks to your previous contributions, the Gulf Coast Relief Fund now provides a source of help and hope to people whose lives and ministries were tragically interrupted by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Because of you, communities will be healed and lives will be transformed. We are deeply moved by the overwhelming response and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

As we begin to assess the scope of the damage in the Gulf Coast region, it is clear that the recovery process will need to continue for many years. If Shelter Rock's challenge is met, the combined gifts will increase the fund by an additional one million dollars. This is money that is sorely needed. The destruction left by the hurricanes is staggering, especially so in the most marginalized communities in the region. Additional contributions to the UUA-UUSC Gulf Coast Relief Fund will allow us to provide ongoing assistance to those most in need. Furthermore, three UU churches in the New Orleans area have been badly damaged, and at least one is beyond repair. The Gulf Coast Relief Panel and UUSC's Department of Rights in Humanitarian Crises have committed to providing long-term and effective interventions and solutions, and they will be making intentional, judicious grants in order to make the best use of the funds.

This tragedy has tested us like no other, but it has also given us an opportunity to respond in a way that is truly transformative. We ask you now to rise to the challenge offered by our generous friends in the Shelter Rock congregation, to envision what can be when justice-loving people join hands and hearts, and to make this vision a reality. Please give generously so that together we may extend hope and healing to more of our brothers and sisters through a widening circle of care and compassion.

In faith,

The Rev. William G. Sinkford
President
Unitarian Universalist Association

Charlie Clements, M.D.
President and CEO
Unitarian Universalist Service Committee


Link

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Wednesday, October 12, 2005

This Week At UUP: Week of October 10-16

Sunday:

(Social time with bagels / coffee / tea / juice begins at 10:00, at the Petaluma Woman's Club, 518 B Street. Worship service at 10:30.)

Sunday, October 16: "This I Do"

There are always discoveries when getting to know our members, so much below the surface. Hope Stewart, new member, and Adee Swanson, member and staff person, will share how they practice Unitarian Universalism (without preaching it).

October 23: "Rachel Carson: Her Life and Work":
Guest speaker, Lilith Rogers

There is more need than ever before for the people of our world to wake up and start protecting our air, water and soil. Rachel Carson (1907-1964), one of the most influential writers and thinkers of the 20th century, is widely regarded as the founding mother of the modern environmental movement. Her best-selling book, Silent Spring (1962), alerted the American public to the dangers posed by the widespread and careless use of pesticides other chlorinated hydrocarbons which came into widespread distribution during and immediately after WWII. Rogers tells Carson's story in the first person, revealing the many personal challenges Carson faced in her life. Rogers inspires others to realize that, through perseverance and dedication, one can achieve one's goals, that one person can truly make an important difference.
********************************************************************************
UUP Blog

David Dodd, in his new incarnation as UUP Webmaster, has added a wonderful feature to our website. We now have a UUP blog that will allow us to keep people informed and update announcements without having to send out extra emails. For the very latest on all the goings on at UUP go to www.uupetaluma.org and click on "UUP Blog" at the bottom of the page. If you have an announcement, info on a committee, or correction that you think would be appropriate to have posted there, please send it to David at weaverly at earthlink.net or Adee Swanson at uupetaluma at gmail.com.
*********************************************************************************
Harvest Folk Dance

The Ray Bierl String Band will be fiddlin' and Erik Hoffman will be callin' at our Sunday, November 13, Harvest Folk Dance. But there won't be any fiddlin' or callin' without a little volunteerin'! Openings available now for: 1) Publicity Assistant, 2) Raffle Captain, 3) Ticket Booth Captain. Contact Celeste (CDurrum at PacBell.net).
********************************************************************************************
Contact Info Update & Our First Steps Toward Getting the "Passions & Professions Binder" Started

Please keep an eye out for an insert in your order of service over the next few weeks that will allow you to easily and quickly update your contact information for the UUP Directory. There will be a basket on the back table for you to deposit your slips in.

Included on the short form will be a box to check if you would like to have a information about your business, hobby, workshops, or artwork included in our new "Passions & Professions" UUP community resource binder.

You may also email Adee Swanson at uupetaluma at gmail.com with your information, but please put the words "UUP Directory Update" in the heading. We'll need your name, spouse or partner's name, children's names, whether or not you are a member at UUP, your phone number, your email, and your blood type (just kidding). But please do also indicate if you are interested in participating in the "Passions & Professions" project. All members and regular attendees are eligible to be listed in the Directory.
***********************************************************************************************
Three Vacancies on the UUP Board of Trustees

Have you considered the possibility that you might be a good candidate for the UUP Board? This December, at our semi-annual congregational meeting, we will elect three new members to our Board.

Our Board is our day-to-day governing body, and is responsible for the nuts and bolts aspects of running a congregation. Individual Board members act as liaisons to the various committees, and take on particular areas of responsibility.

The Nominating Committee exists to nominate members to serve on the Board, and is composed of Naomi Davis, David Dodd, and Jennine Lanouette--each a former Board member--and welcomes your expression of interest in seeking election to the Board. UUP bylaws specify that members of the Board must be voting members. The term of office is three years. Please contact any one of them to nominate yourself, or to ask whatever questions you might have about the duties of a Board member.

Also feel free to speak with any current Board member about what is going on with the Board these days, and what work they are focusing on in the current year. Board members are: David Hathaway(President); KC Greaney (Chair); Karen Elliott (Treasurer); Marlene Abel; and Nancy Blake.
******************************************************************************
Adult Religious Exploration

We have four potential activity and discussion groups planned for our Adult RE program this fall. The sign-up sheet will be on a clipboard on the Free Speech Table for the next few Sundays. Everyone is welcome, so feel free to let other friends in the community know about this! If you are not going to be attending services for a few weeks you may also email Adee Swanson at uupetaluma at gmail.com to express your interest in a class. Below is a description of each offering. Availability is subject to interest -so sign up and make them happen.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Chosen Faith: An introduction to Unitarian Universalism
by John Buehrens and Forrest Church
(a book discussion group)

Thought-provoking, entertaining sourcebook for searchers, newcomers and lifelong learners. Discuss a chapter per month. $15
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Building Your Own Theology
(A curriculum developed by the Unitarian Universalist Association)

The classic model for developing a personal theology. Begins with an introduction to the Purposes and Principles. Participants will learn the critical steps towards creating a personal credo--a specific set of meanings, values and convictions that inform and direct the living of one's life. $16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spiritual Film Series

View and discuss a series of films shown in members' homes: What the Bleep Do We Know, and other films that tackle life's big questions.

Hosts needed (big screen and good sound preferred for best viewing)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Evensong

A weekly evening ritual gathering to share spiritual poetry, music, and a set liturgy to be crafted by the group in initial meetings.
************************************************************************************
Regularly Scheduled Gatherings:

-Larking About (choir) meets Thursday evenings from 7:30-9:30pm @ Nancy's. Please note! Cancelled this week.

-Religious Education Committee will meet Saturday, October 15. Teachers only from 10:30 to 11, then entire committee from 11-1:30. Location to be set. Call Janice or Marlene for details.

-UUP Women's Group will meet Monday, October 17th from 7:30-9:30 at KC's.

-Membership & Hospitality Committee will meet Monday, October 24 at Stacey's.
************************************************************************************
If you would like to receive this delivered to your personal email, or if you have changed your email address or would like to be removed from the UUP list please email Christian Boatsman at christian at biosearchtech.com

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Monday, October 10, 2005

UU Legislative Ministry Virtual Meeting House

A note from the Pacific Central District of the UUA:

California voters will be interested in the “Virtual Meeting House” page on the web site for the UU legislative ministry, a very helpful resource to use in preparing to cast an informed vote on November 8. The Meeting House will offer summaries of the key issues of each ballot proposition, links to additional resource materials, and the reflections of UUs from across the state. This site was greatly appreciated by UUs all around California last year, and we're very glad to hear it will be back in operation soon.

If you'd like to write an opinion piece on any of the ballot issues, send it to meetinghouse@uulmca.org

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Friday, October 07, 2005

This Week at UUP: Week of October 3-9

This Week At UUP
A weekly email sent to our members and friends email lists

For complete up-to-date info on the Unitarian Universalists of Petaluma, see our website: http://www.uupetaluma.org

Sunday, October 9: "Yom Kippur"
Regular Guest Minister: Leland Bond-Upson

Sunday, October 16: "This I Do"
There are always discoveries when get­ting to know our members, so much be­low the surface. Hope Stewart, new member, and Adee Swanson, member and staff person, will share how they practice Unitarian Universalism (without preaching it).
*********************************
Harvest Folk Dance Attention: Sunday, November 13, is the new date for our Harvest Folk Dance, a festive event planned for members, friends, sister UU congregations, and the public. Many hands make light work, so consider offering yours to head these areas: 1)Raffle/White Elephant Sale, 2)Entrance Fees and Security. Contact Celeste for job descriptions.

*********************************
Three Vacancies on the UUP Board of Trustees

Have you considered the possibility that you might be a good candidate for the UUP Board? This December, at our semi-annual congregational meeting, we will elect three new members to our Board. Our Board is our day-to-day gov­erning body, and is responsible for the nuts and bolts aspects of running a con­gregation. Individual Board members act as liaisons to the various committees, and take on particular areas of responsi­bility.

The Nominating Committee exists to nominate members to serve on the Board, and is composed of Naomi Davis, David Dodd, and Jennine Lanouette--each a former Board member--and wel­comes your expression of interest in seeking election to the Board. UUP by­laws specify that members of the Board must be voting members. The term of office is three years. Please contact any one of them to nominate yourself, or to ask whatever questions you might have about the duties of a Board member.

Also feel free to speak with any cur­rent Board member about what is going on with the Board these days, and what work they are focusing on in the current year. Board members are: David Hatha­way (President); KC Greaney (Chair); Karen Elliott (Treasurer); Marlene Abel; and Nancy Blake.

*********************************

Adult Religious Exploration

We have four potential activity and dis­cussion groups planned for our Adult RE program this fall. The sign-up sheet will be on a clipboard on the Free Speech Table for the next few Sundays. Every­one is welcome, so feel free to let other friends in the community know about this! If you are not going to be attending services for a few weeks you may also email Adee Swanson at uupeta­luma at gmail.com to express your inter­est in a class. Below is a description of each offering. Availability is subject to interest -so sign up and make them hap­pen.

-------------------------------------------------
A Chosen Faith: An introduction to Unitarian Universalism
by John Buehrens and Forrest Church (a book discussion group)
Thought-provoking, entertaining source­book for searchers, newcomers and life­long learners. Discuss a chapter per month. $15
-------------------------------------------------
Building Your Own Theology (A curriculum developed by the Unitar­ian Universalist Association)
The classic model for developing a per­sonal theology. Begins with an introduc­tion to the Purposes and Principles. Par­ticipants will learn the critical steps to­wards creating a personal credo--a spe­cific set of meanings, values and con­victions that inform and direct the living of one's life. $16
-------------------------------------------------
Spiritual Film Series
View and discuss a series of films shown in members' homes: What the Bleep Do We Know, and other films that tackle life's big questions.
Hosts needed (big screen and good sound preferred for best viewing)
-------------------------------------------------
EvensongA weekly evening ritual gathering to share spiritual poetry, music, and a set liturgy to be crafted by the group in ini­tial meetings.

*********************************
From the Pacific Central District:The PCD-UUA Stebbins Summer Gath­ering at Asilomar, invites you to a work­shop selection meeting Saturday Dec. 10, 2005 at the Mount Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church (www.mduuc.org). There will be a potluck lunch from 11:30 to 12:30 and workshop presentations from 12:30 to 2:00.We are looking for some new work­shops. Do you have a workshop you would like to present? Is there someone who could give a workshop you would like to attend?Whether you would like to present a workshop or not, please join us for a friendly time and to help us select this year's group of workshops. We will be stronger because of your presence. For a copy of the workshop brochure, call Dick LeBlanc at 510-234-3524. For more information about our program, call Jann Rose Schaub at 925-938-5454 or check our website at www.serve.com/stebbins. The conference, July 29 to August 3, 2006, "Finding the Way Forward: Con­necting Forgiveness, Self Discovery and Global Healing", is pleased to announce two theme peakers: Reverend Cathleen Cox Burneo, community minister with the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley; and Dr. Fred Luskin, co­founder and director of the Stanford Forgiveness Project.
*********************************
Regularly Scheduled Gatherings: -Larking About (choir) meets Thursday evenings from 7:30-9:30pm @ Nancy's.
*********************************
If you have changed your email address or would like to be removed from the UUP list please email Christian Boats­man at christian at biosearchtech.com

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Welcome to the UUP Blog

Here's a place to get recent news, add your own (contact webmaster at uupetaluma.info to get the details..), and touch base with your own comments about the Unitarian Universalists of Petaluma.

Have a potluck coming up? Trying to get more members for your committee, work group, or religious exploration sessions? Is something happening today or tomorrow that you think all UUPers should know about, but you didn't get it to "This Week at UUP" in time?

This is the place.

We'll also post "This Week at UUP" on the blog each week, in case you missed the email, or don't receive it. We'll include instructions for signing up for this once-per-week update on the doings at our congregation.

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