Minister’s Meditation

As I write this, great trees are dancing frantically about in the remnants of Hurricane Jose. Tomorrow Jose will usher in the first day of autumn. The slower days of summer have given way to the energy and rejuvenation of the fall. Our once quiet spaces are filled with greetings and music and laughter and earnest conversations. The great wheel of grace and motion and intent that is the life of this congregation has come once again to the beginning of our church year. It is so good to be with you, to see your enthusiasm and good will. We have a wonderful church life and legacy to pass forward to one another and to our children.

October is the month when we open up to all the possibilities this congregation offers. Join what interests you - our programs and our concerts. Come to our “All About Us Fair” on Sunday, October 15, and find out all the different ways to enjoy and contribute something meaningful to our communities.

Rev. Sarah

       

T H E F I R S T U N I T A R I A N U N I V E R S A L I S T S O C I E T Y O F M I D D L E B O R O U G H

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25 South Main Street, Middleborough, MA 02346 www.uumiddleboro.org 508-947-1935 October, 2017

The yearlong theme is power, privilege and possibility.

Sunday, October 1, at 10:30 a.m. Rev. Sarah K. Person preaching

Feeding the Soul Today we celebrate World Communion Sunday with cranberry juice and cornbread. Our service is grounded in the meaning of communion – an act of sharing that invokes the promise of community. What are our spiritual obligations to one another in the world today? We take nourishment from our experiences with one another and we give back. Join us for this uplifting ritual and affirmation. Special Music will be provided by a Vocal Ensemble.

Sunday, October 8, at 10:30 a.m. Rev. Sarah K. Person preaching

Identity on an IPod If you love music, UUSM is the place to be this Sunday. In the morning, we’ll reflect on our “musical identities.” Why do we choose the styles we like? What do they say about us? And what assumptions do we make about others? Special Music this morning will be a “tickler” for the afternoon concert. Joshua McKiernan, tenor, will be accompanied by Jonathan Keene, and Patty Simon will play flute. Sunday afternoon we’ll be offering our fall Raise the Rafters concert featuring Natsumi Malloy on the organ and a host of musicians and singers.

Sunday, October 15, at 10:30 a.m. A Family Worship Service led by Juliet Donaldson, DRE

Star Wars: A Hero's Journey Join us as we explore why the original Star Wars film, a low-budget 1970s science fiction film that no one expected to be successful, has had such a profound effect on our society and culture. Special music will be a song that was written for International Peace Day on September 21.

Sunday, October 22, at 10:30 a.m. Rev. Sarah K. Person preaching

The Good Fit Calling all kids and grown-ups! Wear your favorite t-shirt to church this Sunday. It’s all about sharing our identities in this sacred space and declaring who we are and who we want to be. The Chalice Choir will be singing.

Sunday, October 29, at 10:30 a.m. Viola Fairweather preaching

Remembering the Dead and Living Fully For centuries people around the globe have been honoring their ancestors and the souls of the departed. This morning we will be invited to place a picture of our deceased ones on the altar as we enter the church and speak their names during the service. We will also look at living our own lives fully so that they will truly matter when our time comes to leave life. Viola Fairweather first came to this church in 1969 when she came to Middleboro to teach. Over the years she has been on most committees. She was on staff as an RE Director and led many workshops and groups, including one on Death and Dying. She has done the Hospice Training, worked with dying patients and studied with Bernie Siegel. Special Music will be provided by Eddie Priest.

  NOTES FROM THE PARISH COMMITTEE

We want to let you know about work that's being done to update and enhance our Safe Congregation policies and protocols, and also give some information about upcoming education and awareness opportunities on this topic. The Governance & Policy team is beginning work on reviewing our current policies and protocols and will be making suggested revisions based on current standards and best practices for churches, as prescribed by the UUA and other professional organizations. On the education and awareness front, we're planning to host a "Stewards of Children" session, facilitated by YMCA staff. Please see the separate entry in this newsletter for specific details. We're also planning additional events and opportunities, so stay tuned for information about those. If you would like to contribute to any of these efforts, please speak to Bob Waterman or Reverend Sarah. As always, the Committee on Ministry is available to speak with anyone who has any thoughts or concerns. Please feel free to contact the Committee or any member of the Parish Committee.

Bob Waterman, President

CUUPS GATHER THE WOMEN, SAVE THE WORLD

Monday, October 2, at 7:00 p.m. in the Parish Hall

Urgent Message from MOTHER There is much that is broken in our world today, and time is running out if we are to reverse current trends in order to save the planet. It is thought by many that if we are to make this shift in time, it will be the women who lead the way by bringing their inherent feminine gifts of compassion, wisdom, intelligence and fierce Lioness love.

Join Sandy Smiley and Natalie Johnson for an exploration of these ideas based on the work of Jungian psychologist Jean Shinoda Bolen. We will discuss ways in which we can summon our wise women wisdom and join together to answer the Earth’s cries for help.

**The use of the term “feminine gifts” may apply to those men who are in touch with their inner compassion and wisdom as well …..all are needed and all are welcome.

Your Mother is calling………….

SAMHAIN Monday, October 30, at 7:00 p.m. in the Parish Hall Samhain…(pronounced SOW-in) is also referred to as All Souls and Day of the Dead. This usually marks the end of the warm season with gardens being put to bed and animals moved from summer pastures. Harvesting has ended, and in some traditions the spirits of the ancestors visit their former homes where food and drink awaited them. The veil between the worlds is thinnest, and for many Pagans it marks the beginning of the New Year. All are invited.

 The “Music Department” is working overtime to bring you a Fabulous Fall Concert – Raising the Rafters. Concert time is Sunday afternoon, October 8, at 3:00. This is a free concert with a freewill donation basket ($10 suggested) to help defray costs. Our former organist, Natsumi Malloy, will open the concert with a Bach Prelude and Fugue. One of the choral pieces presented by the choir will be a setting of Lord Alfred Tennyson’s “Crossing the Bar.” A vocal ensemble will sing the background choral part of an excerpt from Verdi’s opera, “La Forza del Destino,” sung by Leilani Dalpe. In addition to a rousing Rachmaninoff piano duet played by “The Susans – Hadfield & Hotchkiss,” we will be crossing over a bit into jazz world with a quartet performing Claude Bolling’s “Baroque and Blue,” featuring Nancy and Edward Kidd, and Patty Simon. Add in some lively audience participation, and we will truly Raise the Rafters. The concert is followed by a social time for refreshments and conversation. Come join us – bring your friends! Childcare is available upon request. Susan Hotchkiss, Director of Music

 ON THE TABLE

Wednesday, October 11, at 7:00 p.m. Center for Spiritual Practice at the McKinstrey House

115 High Street Taunton, MA Rev. Sarah will be hosting a conversation on how to be actively involved with the issues that are important to us in times of change.

People think that natural disasters are “equal opportunity” catastrophes. But, in reality, disasters have a disproportionate impact on some groups such as women, the poor, children, people who are elderly, disabled, or even undocumented immigrants. Faith-based responses to disaster are essential to recovery. Some denominations excel at getting feet on the ground, supplies on site and experienced assistance to victims. Is there more we can do? Is there a way to help our faith communities respond to these other issues as well? Is that asking too much? Give us your thoughts, or simply share your relief work experiences. All are invited.

  IT’S ALL ABOUT UUS FAIR

Sunday, October 15, at 11:45 a.m. in the Parish Hall

If you would like to learn more about the workings of UU Middleboro – If you would like to find a way to get to know more people here – If you are looking for your “spot” - If you would like to offer service to your UU Community - then plan to join us on Sunday October 15, for the It’s All About UUs Fair in the Parish Hall following the Worship Service. This will be an opportunity to speak to Committee chairs and leaders and to let them know what your interests are. We also want to hear about your ideas for how we can better meet your needs and interests. Whether you are a newcomer, a longtime member or somewhere in between, please take a look around at the opportunities that await you.

RITUAL & REFLECTION

with Barbara Bancroft and Rev. Sarah Mondays - October 16 & 23, November 13 & 27, December 11

Join us in the Parish Hall for a six-part series on ways to feed the soul with a blend of gentle yoga, videos by Tara Brach (https://www.tarabrach.com/), creative practices, conversation and prayer. There is a limit of 15, so please contact Rev. Sarah at minister@uumiddleboro.org.

RELIGIOUS EXPLORATION

We’ve made a good start on our Jedi training: we’ve discovered the 7 pillars of the Jedi, voted on the First Principle Project, talked about the issues of cloning and learned about the Jedi Trials.

The Jedi Trials There are four Jedi trials that our Jedi trainees can work towards during the year: Justice, Service, Compassion and Democracy. The Trial of Justice: As part of our Force for Change unit, Jedi trainees can help sell Equal Exchange products, are encouraged to trade out regular family purchases for more ethical options, and help out and learn more about our local food pantry. The Trial of Service: Trainees are encouraged to be greeters, help with coffee hour, raise money for the church by helping with the RE Valentine Dinner, help with childcare, or light the chalice during service. The Trial of Compassion: Trainees will be asked to identify random acts of kindness that they feel they could do during the year. The Trial of Democracy: Trainees will be asked to contact a government representative about an issue that is important to them, attend a town or political meeting with their parents, sign or help promote a petition, or research and raise awareness of an issue with family and friends. To succeed in a Jedi trail and earn their pin, each trainee will need to undertake 7 activities. Parents and Guardians will need to initial the Trial Cards once an act has been done. Trainees are encouraged to write details of their accomplishments on the back of their Trial Cards. Save the dates: • Our Halloween Party is scheduled for Saturday, October 28, starting at 3:00 p.m. at

Juli Gould’s house. Grab your costume and join us for fun games, food and a bonfire. • Force for Change Event on November 12: We’ll be selling Equal Exchange items just in

time for Thanksgiving. • Our Holiday Party will be after the service on December 3. We’ll decorate gingerbread

houses, sing carols, put up the Christmas tree, prepare reindeer food, make Christmas cards and eat pizza.

• Our Winter Pageant is scheduled for December 17. We’ll be acting out the story of Star Wars with the help of R2D2 and all the beloved Star Wars characters.

• On Saturday, February 10, the RE Program will be hosting a Valentine Dinner to raise money for the congregation. We’ll cook food, wait on tables and offer some after dinner entertainment.

MINUTES OF THE PARISH COMMITTEE MEETING July 12, 2017

Present: Bill Howe, Laura Stevens, Pam Davis, Nancy Backus, Bob Waterman, Marc MacQueen, Holly Begley

Minutes of the June 21 meeting were accepted as corrected.

Building & Grounds: A leak over the upstairs back hall and piano area needs prompt investigation and remediation.

Treasurer’s Report: 95% of FY 2017 pledges are in; we lack $6,000 of the total amount pledged. It was suggested that we create a brochure describing various church funds and giving opportunities. The Parish Committee voted to disburse $869 to the Minister’s Discretionary Fund. When the Scott Trust’s gain in value during a period of one year, excluding contributions to the Trust, exceeds $1000 for that year period, the Parish Committee can vote to disburse up to one half of the gain to the Minister’s Discretionary Fund. Only one disbursement may be made during any calendar year.

Social Action and Public Relations Committees: No reports were available.

Calendar and Event Planning: A meeting is set for 7/23 after church to facilitate better communication about and coordination of church events. Parameters and guidelines should be provided to those planning events. Andrea Priest is event coordinator for our fundraising sales booth at the September 30 Lakeville Arts Festival.

Yard Sale: We are asking donors to hold and store their items until 7/26. Work shifts are available for sign–up. All yard sale remnants are to be cleared out before Tuesday 8/8 Peaceful Quilters meeting.

Cash in the Plate: September and December are designated for the Ministers Discretionary Fund. Recipients for October and November are to be determined.

Incorporation: We are now incorporated as a church in the State of Massachusetts. Our annual renewal date falls in early June; Bill Howe will renew us in 2018. Meanwhile, we continue to pursue 501(c) 3 status.

Special Projects: Discussion and planning for transgender restrooms will take place in the fall. We will also examine church bylaws and other documents to prepare for insertion of gender inclusive language.

Congregational Safety: The June 25 meeting was well attended. Pastoral Care and Ministry Committee members are following up with individuals concerned about the Sex Offenders in our Midst program. Specific contacts are being made from a core outreach group. The membership team will also reach out to individuals.

Budget Update & Planning: A series of open discussions are being planned. The congregation will be asked to actively participate in examining and choosing options to eliminate the budget gap of $30,000, including possible spending cuts or increased fundraising or some combination thereof. Numerous possibilities for balancing the budget were discussed. The PC agreed to consult with Dan Hotchkiss for advice on how to engage the congregation in this critical decision-making process. Meeting dates for the PC and Congregation will be established.

The next regular meeting of the Parish Committee will take place on September 20.

The meeting was adjourned.

PARISH CARE Pastoral Care help is available to assist with meals, transportation, emergency babysitting, and hospital visits during illnesses or other family emergencies.

We are a diverse, active and caring community; and we welcome your questions and your participation. You are always invited to call or visit our minister to discuss any matter of concern to you. Pastoral Care: Susan Curtiss Meals: Dody Adkins-Perry Rides: Tricia Tummino Cards: Chris Korben Caring Choir: Valerie Fontaine Prayer Shawls & Blankets: Juli Gould

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OUR BROADCASTS Our worship services are videotaped and broadcast over local cable television in Middleboro on Comcast channel 95 and Verizon channel 35. You can watch the service any time online at http://bit.ly/1CLvEmm.

Middleboro: Sunday & Monday: 10:00 a.m. Wednesday & Thursday: 4:00 p.m. Friday: 3:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m. Saturday: 7:00 p.m. Our worship services are now broadcast over local cable television in Lakeville on Verizon channel 32.

Lakeville: Sunday: 6:00 p.m. Tuesday & Thursday: 10:00 a.m. Saturday: 6:00 p.m.

HOSPITALITY COMMITTEE MESSAGE As we welcome you back for the start of another amazing year of spiritual growth, fellowship and service here at FUUSM, you will notice that our Coffee Hour has a new look. We have streamlined the beverage set-up and will be offering light, easy to serve snacks, such as pretzels, crackers, and wholesome cookies. We encourage you to pick a Sunday to sign up to be a Coffee Hour Host. It is a wonderful way to give back to our church community, and now it will be quick and easy. There is a sign-up clipboard in the Parish Hall. So pick a buddy and give it a try.

PARISH COMMITTEE President: Bob Waterman Vice President: Barbara Bancroft Treasurer: Pam Davis Assistant Treasurer: Marc MacQueen Parish Clerk: Holly Begley R.E. Liaison: J. R. Pucillo-Dunphy Members At Large: Nancy Backus Bill Howe Eileen Smith Laura Stevens

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CHURCH CALENDAR We would like to keep the church calendar up-to-date. Please check the online calendar for the 2017 - 2018 church year by visiting http://uumiddleboro.org/, click on About Us, and scroll down to Calendar to confirm that your meeting or event is scheduled. Contact the church office (office@uumiddleboro.org) with any changes or additions.

Our congregation supports the Sacred Heart Food Pantry.

Among items most needed are: peanut butter and jam; canned tuna, salmon and mackerel; cold cereal - bran flakes, Cheerios, Kix, etc; powdered milk; dry hot cereal mixes - oatmeal, farina, cream of wheat, etc; granola bars; whole wheat and graham crackers; dried fruit; boxed pasta and noodle mixes; canned beans; vegetables and fruit; ketchup; mayonnaise; vegetable oil; honey; microwavable meals; canned meats; staple meal items; and toiletries such as shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant and baby wipes. No expired items, please.

Place your donations in the baskets located in the parlor. Thank you.

Evalyn Buczek

 

2015-2016 REGIONAL PRO

STEWARDS OF CHILDREN Child Abuse Prevention Training for Adults and Children

Sunday, November 5 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. in the Parish Hall

More than 90 percent of victims of child sex abuse know their abusers, usually quite well. Do you know how to speak up as an adult if you see a situation that makes you uncomfortable, and how to set up routines and spaces that will make the children in your life safer?

On Sunday, November 5, Julie Kennedy of Old Colony YMCA will bring to our church this course for ages 18+ developed by From Darkness to Light, a national child-sex-abuse-prevention group. Both Juliet and Kimberly took the course, required for all Y child-care workers, and learned new practices we could put to use in our families right away. This is not just for teachers, parents, and grandparents—but for all adults who have children in their families, neighborhoods, and church.

While the adults are learning upstairs in the parlor and sanctuary, K-6 children are invited downstairs to learn from the safety unit in the Our Whole Lives curriculum for their age group. Teens are needed as assistants and to provide care for pre-K children.

Pizza will be provided; let us know if you require gluten free. You must sign up for these programs by November 1 so we have enough course materials. Look for signup sheets, or let one of us know.

  —Kimberly  French  and  Juliet  Donaldson,  Adult  and  Children’s  Religious  Exploration