UUFA Sunday Morning Program Committee
The Sunday Morning Program Committee (SMPC) plans and
implements year-round Sunday morning services during times
when our minister doesn't speak. The committee works with our
minister to facilitate and to plan shared programs. Members
arrange for speakers from within and from outside the
Fellowship.
Programs Presented in 2011
January 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
Jan 2 "On the Backs of our Speakers: Linda Barnes [63,32]
Mothers: Justice, Gender, Facilitators: Toby Ewing, Sam Wormley
Basketball, Agriculture" Accompanist: Peggy Earnshaw
Special Music:
Sound: Dallas Thies & Rich Van Valin
Sometimes amid our angst over social and environmental injustice we fail
to appreciate all the progress that has been made by those that have
come before us. This service will explore that very subject from a
historical and very Iowan perspective.
Jan 9 "Spirituals" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan & The Music Men [73,58]
[Service Built Around Six Sprituals] Facilitators: Amy Slagell, Sarah Carlson
"Climbin' Up the Mountain" Accompanist: Ginny Molgaard
"Deep River" Special Music: The Music Men
"Ev'ry Time I Feel the Spirit" Sound: Donald Lewis & Greg Bruna
"Were You There"
"Ain't Got Time to Die"
"Ride the Chariot"
Jan 16 "Civil Right in Music" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan, Coppoc [75,42]
[Martin Luther King Jr Holiday Jan 17] Facilitators: Kay Puttock, Jess Higgins
Accompanist: Peggy Earnshaw in for Mary Richards
Special Music: Jen McClung, Jim Coppoc
Sound: Sam Wormley & Greg Bruna
Jan 23 "Journeying Separately Speakers: Rev. Steven Protzman [68,82]
Together" Facilitators: Sam Wormley, Andrew Williams, Amy Slagell
[Iowa Grown Meal] Accompanist: Barb Evenson
Special Music: Fellowship Voices
Sound: Donald Lewis and Dallas Thies
As Unitarian Universalists, theological diversity is one of our greatest
strengths, yet it is often a point of division in our congregations and
in our Association. This service will explore our third principle, which
calls us to find a way to journey together in a covenant of mutual
respect even as we each walk our separate and unique paths of spiritual
discovery and growth.
Jan 30 "Dancing Into Faith: The Speakers: Rev. Janne Eller-Isaacs [75,47]
In-Between Times" Facilitators: Mark Witherspoon, Charlotte
Accompanist: Peggy Earnshaw
Special Music: Raj Raman and sons
Sound: Sam Wormley (both services)
Times of transition offer challenges and opportunities. Janne
Eller-Isaacs, the Ministerial Settlement Representative for the Prairie
Star District, will explore some of the challenges that face
congregations in times of transition and will also lift up the
opportunities that face the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ames.
February 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28
Feb 6 "A Gererous Spirit" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [64,55]
Facilitators: Sarah Carlson & Sam Wormley
Accompanist: Anne Kimber
Special Music: Fellowship Trio
Sound: Sam Wormley & Dallas Thies
Special Music: Fellowship Trio This Sunday is the kick-off to our
2011-2012 `No Nonsense' pledge drive. Please study the materials mailed
to your homes (or access the documents on our website) in advance of
this Sunday. You will be asked to turn in your completed pledge cards
during the service.
Feb 13 "Love In Action" Speakers: Emma's Revolution and Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [68,56]
Facilitators: Amy Slagell, Kay Puttock and Paul Jasper
Accompanist: None Required
Special Music: Emma & the Transition
Sound: Dallas Thies (both services)
"The powers that be can control the media but it's hard to stop a good
song... Pat's songs will be sung well into the 22nd century." ~Pete
Seeger on National Public Radio's "All Things Considered" Emma's
Revolution is the duo of award-winning, activist musicians, Pat
Humphries & Sandy O, who write songs that become traditions. Their song,
"If I Give Your Name" won Grand Prize in the John Lennon Songwriting
Contest and their music has been featured on NPR's "All Things
Considered" and Pacifica's "Democracy Now!". "Peace, Salaam, Shalom" is
sung around the world and has been called the "anthem of the anti-war
movement." "Keep On Moving Forward" opened the NGO Forum at the UN
Fourth World Conference on Women in Bejiing, becoming the unofficial
theme of the Conference. Pat and Sandy will address this Sunday's theme
`Love In Action' through their inspiring music.
Feb 20 "Synergistic Satisfiers" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [75,36]
Facilitators: Mark Witherspoon & Paul Nelson
Accompanist: Barb Evenson
Special Music: Fellowship Voices
Sound: Dallas Thies (both services)
The Fellowship Auction item `Sermon on the topic of your choice' was won
by Fritz Franzen. He asked me to speak about the work of Chilean
economist Manfred Max-Neef (The Barefoot Economist) who came to the
realization that conventional economics has nothing to say to people
living in poverty. He developed an economic model that focuses on basic
human needs. Max-Neef 's model speaks deeply to Unitarian Universalists.
He `says the economy is a subsystem of a larger finite system, the
biosphere, hence permanent growth is impossible. And the fundamental
value to sustain a new economy should be that no economic interest,
under no circumstance, can be above the reverence of life.'
Feb 27 "Youth Sunday" Speakers: Fellowship Youth [98,93]
[Soup Lunch] Facilitators: None Required
Accompanist: Ginny Molgaard
Special Music:
Sound: Dallat Thies as needed
The high school youth will be planning and facilitating the Sunday
morning services on February 27. Their theme is "Dreams." You can count
on there being great youth musicians, speakers and writers. Don't miss
out on the youths' perspectives and wisdom on the topic of dreaming.
March 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 31
Mar 6 "Inherent Worth & Dignity" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [78,47]
[New Member Sunday] Facilitators: Sarah Carlson & Paul Nelson
Accompanist: Anne Kimber
Special Music:
Sound: Donald Lewis and Sam Wormley
As a member congregation of the Unitarian Universalist Association we
covenant to "affirm and promote: The inherent worth and dignity of every
person." What do we mean when we say this? Are there any exceptions? We
will be welcoming new members to our congregation during both services.
Mar 13 "Justice, Equity & Compassion Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [73,45]
[Spring Break starts] Facilitators: Sam Wormley, Kay Puttock, Faris Winchester
Accompanist: Peggy Earnshaw
Special Music:
Sound: Dallas Thies (both services)
The Second principle that all Unitarian Universalist congregations
covenant to affirm and promote is "Justice, Equity and Compassion in
human relations." Today's service will focus on what that might mean in
today's politically charged environment.
Mar 20 "The Inquisition and... Speakers: Sam Wormley [80,51]
the Telescope" Facilitators: Chris White & Toby Ewing
[Equinox Mar 20 6:21 PM CDT] Accompanist: Mary Richards
[Spring Break ends] Special Music: Recorder Consort (Renaissance Music)
Special Music: Liz Gull & Jess Higgins (Sweet Kate)
Sound: Sam Wormley and Greg Bruna
Galileo (1564-1642), is one of the most remarkable men who ever
lived. More than any one of his predecessors or contemporaries
he introduced 'controlled experiment' as a means of gaining
knowledge of nature. Join us as we explore how Galileo helped
change our view of our place in the universe on this 400th
anniversary of using a telescope to view the heavens.
Mar 27 "Acceptance & Encouragement" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [91,41]
[Soup Lunch] Facilitators: Linda Barnes and Andrew Williams
[Congregational Meeting] Accompanist: Barb Evenson
Between Services Special Music: Fellowship Voices, Aaron Zilber Mann
Sound: Dallas Thies and Sam Wormley
Sometimes Unitarian Universalists find it difficult to accept the
variety of faith traditions that nourish our members and to encourage
each other to deepen their spiritual lives in ways that may not satisfy
us personally. As a member congregation of the Unitarian Universalist
Association we have covenanted to affirm and promote our Third
principle: Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual
growth in our congregations. How do we/might we engage in this intricate
dance?
April 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 <-- PSD Annual Conference Apr 8-10
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Apr 3 "Sacred Spaces" Speakers: Lori Allen & Small Group Ministry [70,51]
[Small Group Ministry] Facilitators: Sarah Carlson, Jess Higgins
Accompanist: Mary Richards
Special Music:
Sound: Sam Wormley (both services)
We all have places that have been important in our lives and remain
significant in our memories. Our connections to one another are
enhanced, our understanding of the sacred is clarified, and acceptance
of ourselves and each other is a gift we receive when we understand that
the space we share now is sacred. Experience small group ministry today
as sacred space. Learn how to become part of the renewed and reclaimed
UUFA Small Group Ministry Program.
Apr 10 "Gender Identity" Speakers: Joni Stacy (confirmed) [60,55]
Facilitators: Kay Pottock, Paul Nelson
Accompanist: Anne Kimber
Special Music:
Sound: Dallas Thies and Rich Van Valin
Joni Stacy, Guest Speaker Sharing the unexpected journey of finding out
that gender isn't always as it appears. Join us to explore how our
children can be the best messengers of God's unconditional love for all
of us....if we just take the time to listen and learn from them.
Apr 17 "Interdependent Web" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [75,31]
[Earth Day Apr 22] Facilitators: Linda Barnes, Amy Slagell
[Palm Sunday] Accompanist: Ginny Molgaard
Special Music: The Coppoc Duo
Sound: Dallas Thies and Sam Wormley
In honor of Earth Day, we will look at the 7th principle that Unitarian
Universalist congregations have covenanted to Affirm and Promote: The
interdependent web of existence, of which we are a part.
Apr 24 "Easter Sunday" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [88,70]
[Easter Sunday] Facilitators: Sarah Carlson, Nikki Krueger
[Soup Lunch] Accompanist: Barb Evenson
Special Music: Fellowship Voices (Ubi Caritas)
Sound: ... & Dallas Thies
This Sunday we will celebrate the miracle of the earth awakening from
its winter slumber. We will also have a Child Dedication Ceremony to
celebrate new life in our congregation and to commit ourselves to
nurturing these children as they grow.
May 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31
May 1 "Peace, Liberty & Justice" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [84,35]
Facilitators: Amy Slagell, Greta in for Mark Witherspoon
Accompanist: Mary Richards
Special Music: Ginny Molgaard and Jen Coppoc
Sound: Donald Lewis, Greg Bruna
As a UU congregation we covenant to affirm and promote: "A world
community with peace, liberty and justice for all." This Sunday I will
look at this principle in the light of the current immigration reform
debate.
May 8 "Of Woman Born" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [106,35]
[Mother's Day] Facilitators: Sam Wormley, Paul Nelson
Accompanist: Ginny Molgaard
Special Music: Jim Coppoc
Sound: Rich Van Valin (with Assistance from Sam), Dallas Thies
The one thing that all human beings have in common is that we are all
born of a woman. This Mother's Day I'll be looking at our expectations
and understanding of Mothers and of Mothering.
May 15 "Religious Passages" Speakers: Lori, Ruth Appleton, et al [127+]
[Single Service at 9:30] Facilitators: Chris White & Sarah Carlson
[Congregational Meeting 10:45] Accompanist: Anne Kimber
[Recognition of Seniors] Special Music: Dylan Larson-Konar, Thea & Iris Brenner
Sound: Sam Wormley
One more year the wheel has turned. Today is a day to say thank you to
our religious Page 3 education volunteers and participants through
music, story and ritual. Through our Ministerial Search Bridging
Ceremony, we acknowledge our high school seniors and the importance of
their Committee time in UUFA religious education and youth programs as
we bid them Godspeed on their Page 5 journey into adulthood. Merry meet,
and merry part, and merry meet again!
May 22 "Responsible Search" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [79,24]
Facilitators: Jess Higgins, Paul Nelson
Accompanist: Anne Kimber
Special Music: Barb Evenson & Deb Kline
Sound: Sam Wormley (both services)
As a Unitarian Universalist congregation we covenant to affirm and
promote "a free and responsible search for truth and meaning." This is
the principle that makes it clear that as Unitarian Universalists, we
are not free to believe whatever we want, but rather to believe what
we must.
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Transition to single 10am service from two services at 9:30am and 11:30am
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
May 29 "Personal Reflections" Speakers: Mark Witherspoon [82]
[Memorial Day Sunday] Facilitators: Mark Witherspoon, Andrew Williams
Accompanist: Ginny Molgaard
Special Music:
Sound: Donald Lewis
On this Memorial Day Sunday several members of our congregation will
share personal reflections of their spiritual journeys and the meaning
of Memorial Day.
June 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 <-- GA Charlotte, North Carolina June 22-26
26 27 28 29 30
Jun 5 "Flower Communion" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [130]
Quilting, Community Facilitators: Toby Ewing, Faris Whinchester
Accompanist: Paul Ferrone
Special Music:
Sound: Dallas Thies
The process of designing and piecing quilts has much to teach us about
how to create religious community. Today is also Flower Communion
Sunday. Please bring a blossom or two to add to the communal vase.
Jun 12 "Interfaith Youth Con" Speakers: Lori Allen Shepherd, Ruth Appleton [85]
Facilitators: Kay Puttock
Accompanist: Anne Kimber
Special Music: Iris, Melissa, Paul
Sound: Sam Wormley
UUFA Youth Advisor Ruth Appleton and the youth attendees of the UUFA
Interfaith Youth Conference share their vision for communities of
interfaith youth working for inclusion, acceptance, and caring, as a
part of their daily living.
Jun 19 "It Still Moves" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan & Sam Wormley [79]
[Summer Solstice Jun 21 12:16pm CDT] Facilitators: Toby Ewing, Andrew Williams
Accompanist: Peggy Earnshaw
Special Music: Drummers
Sound: Dallas Thies
This Sunday recognizes the ancient Midsummer celebration of Summer
Solstice - when the Sun appeared to stand still on the longest day of
the year. Ancient civilizations paid great attention to the seasons.
Devices are still found at Angkor Wat in Cambodia; Stonehenge in
England; Abu Simbel in Egypt; Chichén Itzá in Mexico; and the Great
Plains of North America. Join Charlotte and Sam as we explore our
connections to the motions of sun on this solstice Sunday.
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Begin Eight Week Series: May Your Passions meet the World's Needs
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jun 26 "The Reluctant Prophet: Speakers: Linda Barnes [73]
When Your Passions Facilitators: Kay Puttock, Mark Witherspoon
meet the World's Needs" Accompanist: Peggy Earnshaw
Special Music:
Sound: Dallas Thies
If we are (un)fortunate we may be called upon because of our passions to
take action in a way that we may find both thrilling and terrifying.
This service explores those kinds of events in our lives and introduces
the summer series.
July 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1 2
Sam at 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
UCMC 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Ames --> 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31
Jul 3 "Unleashing the freedoms Speakers: Mark Witherspoon [76]
in the First Amendment" Facilitators: Andrew Williams, Kay Puttock
Accompanist: Jen and Jim
Special Music: RE Kids
Sound: Sam Wormley
If you know the freedoms in our First Amendment, you understand that
they align very well with our UU principles. But knowing the freedoms of
the First Amendment is not the same as using those freedoms to serve our
community and our world. Today, we'll discuss how to unleash the power
of the First Amendment to make our world a better place.
Jul 10 "A God As Big As Speakers: David Kreamer [108]
Lake Superior" Facilitators: Amy Slagell, Toby in for Melissa Jones
Accompanist: Anne Kimber
Special Music:
Sound: Greg Bruna
Former UUFA member David Kraemer shares a bit of his theological journey
since entering seminary at United Theological Seminary of the Twin
Cities. We might call it excursions in "naturalistic humanism." Today
we'll hear what David has come to decide for himself and why he thinks
it makes a difference in the world.
Jul 17 "Music and Poetry" Speakers: Jim & Jen Coppoc [73]
Facilitators: Amy Slagell, Chris White
Accompanist: Peggy Earnshaw
Special Music:
Sound: Dallas Thies
Jul 24 "What I Am Is What Speakers: Erv Klaas [88]
I Was When" Facilitators: Toby in for Mark Witherspoon, Sam Wormley
Accompanist: Ginny Molgaard
Special Music:
Sound: Greg Bruna
As with most people, my basic character was formed in early childhood.
Significant emotional experiences coupled with life-long learning
resulted in what you see today.
Jul 31 "Helping: The Original Speakers: Suzanne Zilber [76]
Ethical Dilemma" Facilitators: Linda Barnes, Mark Witherspoon
Accompanist: Mary Richards
Special Music: Transylvania Crew?
Sound: Donald Lewis
Suzanne will explore what has compelled her to feel "response able"
around social justice issues as well as ways she feels "response
disabled" in the quest to be helpful.
August 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31
Aug 7 "Germplasm Botany: Finding Speakers: David Brenner [60]
and Saving Plants the Facilitators: Paul Nelson, Kay Puttock
World Needs Accompanist: Anne Kimber
Special Music: Larry Burkhalter & Anne Kimber
Sound: Dallas Thies
David Brenner's passion for collecting plants led directly to his career
as Curator of a seed collection, finding and preserving seeds from
around the world. As an internationally-recognized expert in a
specialized field, David has become a resource and mentor for young
botanists worldwide. Come and learn about grapes and amaranth, and also
about the great government seed vault here in Ames. Then, after the
service, sample treats made from some fun plants.
Aug 14 "The Quest for a Story is Speakers: Lori Allen [96]
a Quest for a Life" Facilitators: Linda Barnes, Charlotte
Accompanist: Ginny Molgaard
Special Music:
Sound: Dallas Thies
When we pay close attention to the stories others tell, we learn much
about what they think and believe. If we pay close attention to our own
stories, the way we describe our lives, we reveal the way we understand
why we live our lives the way we do. We are the narrators of our own
stories. When we change, our plots change, opening possibilities for
new and different stories in our future.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Transition from single 10am service to two services at 9:15am and 11:00am
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Aug 21 "Ingathering and Water Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [40,85]
Communion" Facilitators: Mark Witherspoon, Kay Puttock
The Fellowship's annual picnic Accompanist: Anne Kimber
Special Music: Jaw Harp Potential
Sound: Sam Wormley & Dallas Thies
Water, like our congregation, is not static -- it is ever moving,
changing form. Each of us has been changed in some way by the events of
our lives over the past few months. None of us are the same people we
were last May or June or even last week.
Please remember to bring a small container of water (gathered from
streams, oceans, lakes, the backyard garden hose, rain barrels, kitchen
sinks or whatever best represents the milestones of your summer) which
we will co-mingle in celebration of our beginning a new program year
together.
The Fellowship's annual picnic will be after the second service on
Sunday, August 21, at Emma McCarthy Lee Park in the Butternut (lower)
shelter. More information will be available closer to the date from the
UU Meals Planning Group. Contact Helen Gunderson (232-9416 or email
helen@gunderfriend.com)if you have suggestions or questions. Thanks.
Aug 28 "Bringing it Home" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [62,63]
[GA Service] Facilitators: Sarah Carlson, Linda Barns (1st), Amy Slagell?
Accompanist: Peggy Earnshaw, Mary Richards
Special Music:
Sound: Donald Lewis & Sam Wormley
During the last week of June, Ruth Appleton, Hanna Vollbrecht, Terry
Lowman and Charlotte Cowtan joined more than 4000 UU's at General
Assembly in Charlotte, NC. It was an educational and transformative
experience for all of us, and we are excited about sharing some of the
highlights with you this Sunday.
September 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1 2 3
Sam in 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
Mason City ->11 12 13 14 15 16 17 & FACILITATOR'S WORKSHOP starting at 9am
UUFNCI 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30
Sep 4 "Labor Related" Speakers: Suzanne Zilber, Danelda Allen & UUFA Youth [70,50]
http://workersinterfaith.org/ Facilitators: Sam Wormley, Sarah Carlson
Accompanist: Shelli Pitner
Special Music: Tom McGivern & Jen McClung
Sound: Dallas Thies
In these times of economic uncertainty, Labor Day and its traditions
have particular relevance for UUs. In the words of past UUA President
William Sinkford: "Rewarding an honest day's labor with a just living
wage is the right thing to do, and advocating for fair compensation is
our religious duty. It is only when our most vulnerable sisters and
brothers achieve a basic level of economic and physical security that
they can embark upon a 'free and responsible search for truth and
meaning.' Making that spiritual journey possible for all people is the
heart and soul of Unitarian Universalism." Suzanne Zilber will talk
about the moral issues around Labor Day, and we'll be hearing more about
AMOS's Project IOWA, a labor intermediary that has received a $25.000
grant to help disadvantaged central Iowans move into a higher-wage
career path.
Sep 11 "Working Together for Peace" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan & Sal Syed [80,91]
[Recongnition of 9/11] Facilitators: Sarah Carlson, Greta Anderson
[First Forum Upstairs] Accompanist: Ginny Molgaard
[Muslim Community] Special Music:
Sound: Donald Lewis, Greg Bruna
Sal Syed is the Vice President of Masjid Arquim, the Islamic Center in
Ames. Charlotte and Sal will be sharing today's service which focuses on
our shared values of Justice, Equity, Compassion and Peace.
Sep 18 "DREAM Sabbath and Speakers: Gini Courter, UUA Moderator [56,50]
Jubilee GA" Facilitators: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan, Amy Slagell
[Fellowship Voices Rehearsal] Accompanist: Peggy Earnshaw
Special Music:
Sound: Sam Wormley, Mark Harris
The UUA is a member of the Interfaith Immigration Coalition, a
partnership of faith-based organizations committed to enacting fair and
humane immigration reform. Together we invite you to participate in
DREAM Sabbath 2011, a time for education, reflection, action and
solidarity in diverse faith communities across the country.
Sep 25 "Up in the Air" Speakers: Rev. Mark Stringer [87,50]
Facilitators: Toby Ewing, Kay Puttock
[Soup Lunch] Accompanist: Anne Kimber
[Fellowship Voices Rehearsal] Special Music:
[Equinox Sept 23 9:05 UTC] Sound: Sam Wormley (both services)
Rev. Mark Stringer recalls a recent theological discussion he shared
with a stranger at 25,000 feet. Poor visibility and turbulence sure make
for a bumpy ride. How exactly do we land this plane anyway and arrive at
our destinations in one... peace?
October 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 (Sam at Prairie Star District Meeting 9:30-3:30)
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
Oct 2 "The Compulsion to Serve" Speakers: Tammi & Chris Martin [66,58]
Facilitators: Sarah Carlson, Andrew Williams, Crystal Tice
Accompanist: Mary Richards
[Fellowship Voices Rehearsal] Special Music:
Sound: Sam Wormley (both services)
UUFA members Tammi and Chris Martin embarked on a journey to live their
UU principles, and at mid-career they together decided to serve over 2
full years in the Peace Corps. They will share what compelled them to
service and reflect on what they learned as volunteers in Ghana, West
Africa.
Oct 9 "Excellence in Ministry" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [60,40]
Facilitators: Amy Slagell, Linda Barnes, Greta Anderson
[Fellowship Voices Rehearsal] Accompanist: Anne Kimber
Special Music:
Sound: Dallas Thies (both services)
Today we will be joining with hundreds of UU congregations across the
continent and beyond to celebrate the fifth annual Association Sunday. A
special collection will be taken. Funds collected this year will be used
to encourage "Excellence in Ministry" in a variety of ways, including
providing scholarships and continuing education grants for UU religious
professionals and conducting a comprehensive assessment of UU
ministries.
Oct 16 "Our Living Tradition: Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [86,64]
Humanist Teachings" Facilitators: Crystal Tice, Mark Witherspoon
Accompanist: Ginny Molgaard
Special Music: Fellowship Voices: "Lift Up Your Voice"
Special Music: Anne Kimber, Piano
Sound: Donald Lewis, Sam Wormley (Chris White, apprenticing)
The Unitarian Universalist Bylaws list the six primary sources from
which we draw in the ongoing development of our faith. This is the first
of a series of services this year that will be focused on the Sources of
our UU Faith: "Humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the guidance
of reason and the results of science, and warn us against idolitries of
the mind Youth and spirit".
Oct 23 "Beyond Categorical Thinking" Speakers: Michael Takada and Eddy Carroll [64,58]
Facilitators: Sarah Carlson, Andrew Williams
[Soup Lunch] Accompanist: Peggy Earnshaw
[Fellowship Voices Rehearsal] Special Music:
[Beyond Categorical Thinking Worshop] Sound: Sam Wormley, Dallas Thies
Michael Takada and Eddy Carroll will share their thoughts and
experiences around inclusive vs. biased thinking, important concepts for
congregations to consider while in the ministerial search process.
They will also lead a Sunday afternoon workshop, providing us with an
opportunity to discuss what we are looking for in a new minister and the
challenges around being as inclusive as possible while considering
ministerial candidates. The conversations will address both unconcious
biases we all carry related to how individuals identify as well as new
biases that may arise after we identify our unconcious biases.
Oct 30 "UUs in Uganda" Speakers: Rev. Mark Kiwimba [91,70]
Facilitators: Greta Anderson, Kay Puttock
[Fellowship Voices Rehearsal] Accompanist: Shelli Pitner
Special Music: Kids Choir
Sound: Donald Lewis & Sam Wormley
Rev. Mark Kiyimba is the minister of the Unitarian Universalist church
in Kampala, Uganda. Rev. Kiyimba is also the founder of an orphanage and
the New Life School in Masaka (3 hours by car from Kampala) which has
over 500 students (K-8), many of them orphans who have lost their
parents to HIV/AIDS. The UU Church of Kampala, Uganda is welcoming to
gay and lesbian people. This stand has put Rev. Kiyimba in personal
danger, and he is here only until it is deemed safe for him to return
home. Rev. Kiyimba will be speaking today about how his people live
their UU faith in today's Uganda.
November 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1 2 3 4 5
Sam in 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
Mason City ->13 14 15 16 17 18 19
UUFNCI 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30
Nov 6 "Our Living Tradition: Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan with Linda Barnes [107, 46]
Earth Based Spirituality" Facilitators: Linda Barnes, Mark Witherspoon
[Apple Communion] Accompanist: Barb Evenson
[John Rainer Jr Flute Music?] Special Music: Fellowship Voices: "We Are One"
Sound: Donald Lewis, Greg Bruna
This is the second in a series of services based on the sources of our
Unitarian Universalist Faith: "Spiritual teachings of Earth-centered
traditions which celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to
live in harmony with the rhythms of nature". We will have a Child
Dedication Ceremony; our annual Apple Communion will be led by Linda
Barnes, and Fellowship Voices will sing!
Nov 13 "Our Biblical Heritage" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [72,44]
Facilitators: Amy Slagell, Chris White
{Forum Upstairs] Accompanist: Ginny Molgaard
Special Music: Andre Flipping?
Sound: Dallas Thies, Greg Bruna
Today's service is the third in the series of services based on the
sources of our Unitarian Universalist Faith: "Jewish and Christian
Teachings which call us to respond to God's love by loving our neighbors
as ourselves".
Nov 20 "United Nation Sunday" Speakers: Holly Sarkissian [66,46]
[UUUNO] Facilitators: Andrew Williams, Kay Puttock
Accompanist: Mary Richards
[Fellowship Voices Rehearsal] Special Music: Jaw Harp Potential, "Swimming to the Other Side"
Sound: Sam Wormley, Dallas Thies
Holly Sarkissian will speak about the role of the Unitarian Universalist
United Nations Office (UUUNO), one of the most influential non-profit
organizations in the United Nations. The UUUNO works to promote human
rights, climate change, peace and social justice in our world through
activism, constructive participation, and leadership. Their special
focus this year is "Empowering Women for a Better World". Holly will
offer an opportunity for questions and discussion following both
services in Fellowship Hall.
Nov 27 "Connection and Gratitude" Speakers: Lisa Larson, Helen, Greta and Sam [69,35]
Guest at your table Facilitators: Crystal Tice, Sam Wormley
Sharing Thanks at Community Candle Accompanist: Shelli Pitner
[Fellowship Voices Rehearsal] Special Music:
Sound: Dallas Thies, Greg Bruna
Thanksgiving commemorates a harvest festival celebrated by the Pilgrims
in 1621. Please join in sharing of stories of connection and gratitude
from Fellowship members. Instead of traditional milestones, you are
invited to share a few words of thanks at one community candle.
December 2011
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10 <-- Sunday Morning Program Committee Meeting
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
Dec 4 "Building an Inclusive Speakers: Jim and Jen Coppoc [90,48]
Culture of Music" Facilitators: Chris White, Sarah Carlson
Accompanist: Barb Evenson
Special Music: Fellowship Voices: "Hand in Hand"
Special Music: Kids Choir, Earnshaw and Evenson Duo
Sound: Donald Lewis, Greg Bruna
Music is as natural to humans as breathing. From the first rhythms of
our mothers' hearts to the melodies and movement that are so much a part
of early childhood on, music is a form of thought, a mode of expression,
and a natural and powerful channel for human connection. It's no
surprise, then, that nearly all religious traditions keep music at the
core of their worship experience. This service focuses on how our
congregation can use music to build community, to enhance worship, and
to underscore our core values as Unitarian Universalists.
Dec 11 "The Imperfect Holiday" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [72,42]
Facilitators: Sarah Carlson, Linda Barnes
Accompanist: Peggy Earnshaw
Special Music: Recorder Consort
Sound: Sam Wormley, Dallas Thies
Whether we celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Solstice, or Kwanzaa, this is
stressful time of the year for many of us. We worry about finding (and
affording) the perfect gifts; we struggle to set aside time from our
busy schedules for visiting, travelling, cooking, wrapping, cleaning and
entertaining. Perhaps it would be helpful to consider the blessings of
imperfection.
Dec 18 "Stories of the Season" Speakers: Lori Allen and others [104,60]
Facilitators: Toby Ewing, Crystal Tice
[All Congregational] Accompanist: Ginny Molgaard
[Winter Solstice Dec 22 5:30 UTC] Special Music: Orff Kids
Sound: Sam Wormley, Dallas Thies
Dec 24 "Holiday Pageant" Speakers: Jim Coppoc and Lori Allen [55]
5pm Service Facilitators: Sarah Carlson
Accompanist:
Special Music: RE Kids - Images of Christmas
Sound:
"Shepherdy - The Unitarian Universalist Christmas Quiz" Shepherdy
teams will be comprised of children and good sports in the congregation
who care to test their ideas of fact and myth surrounding Christmas.
Carols and candles will complete our annual child and family friendly
Christmas Eve celebration.
Dec 24 "Lessons, Carols & Candles" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan [50]
9pm Service Facilitators: Kay Puttock, Amy Slagell, Toby Ewing
Accompanist: Carole Benson-Holm
Special Music: Carole Benson-Holm & Jen McClung-Coppoc
Sound: Sam Wormley
A traditional Christmas Eve service: familiar carols, Bible
readings and candlelight.
Dec 25 "The Gift of Presence" Speakers: Rev. Charlotte Cowtan, Sam Wormley [~50-55]
[Single Service at 10am] Facilitators: Sam Wormley, Toby Ewing
Accompanist: Cynthia Marten
[Christmas Meal] Special Music:
Sound: Dallas Thies